Oral care5 min
Khadira (Kattha) for Mouth Ulcers: What to Know
Kattha, from the khair tree, is a traditional dab for mouth ulcers. How it is used, why it stings, and when an ulcer needs a doctor.
What to know about khadira
Khadira is the cutch tree; its extract, kattha, is the brown paste in paan. Ayurveda uses it as an astringent for the mouth and gums.
Khadira (Acacia catechu) is a strongly astringent extract used in paan and in Ayurvedic mouth preparations like Khadiradi vati. A tiny dab on a canker sore may help it feel less raw. Most mouth ulcers heal in one to two weeks.
Ingredients
- A pinch of pure kattha powder
- A drop of water or honey
How to prepare
- Make a tiny paste with water or honey.
How to use
- Dab on the ulcer with a clean cotton bud once or twice a day; avoid eating for 20 minutes.
- Eat soft, non-spicy food until it heals.
Helpful habits
- Buy pure kattha pieces from a trusted shop.
Precautions
- It stings briefly. Avoid paan and tobacco. An ulcer lasting more than two weeks, or a painless white or red patch, needs a doctor or dentist.
- Paan with supari or tobacco raises mouth cancer risk; use kattha alone, sparingly.
- Keep brushing twice a day; see a dentist for pain, swelling or an ulcer lasting over two weeks.
- Traditional use; scientific evidence is limited. Do not stop prescribed medicine.
Frequently asked questions
Is kattha the same as paan masala?
- No; pan masala and gutkha are harmful. Use only pure kattha.
Can I use Khadiradi vati?
- Yes, as a lozenge at the labelled dose.
Is kattha safe to swallow?
- Tiny amounts in paan are common; do not take it as a supplement.
