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Dill Pickles Heal Corners of Mouth

Q. I saw your column about cracks at the corner of the mouth and was surprised to learn this actually had a name. About 17 years ago I had cracks–almost like a paper cut–in the corners of my mouth. The next day they were gone. This seemed impossible!

I reviewed what had been special about that day and remembered I had been served a dill pickle with my sandwich. I was really hungry and ate it. (I do not really like dill pickles and don’t usually eat them.)

I have confirmed this healing power of pickles a number of times over the years. Now I keep a jar in the refrigerator for occasional use. I checked the label–I am a chemist–but I don’t know what it is that helps. Still, you can’t knock success.

A. The medical term for cracks at the corner of the mouth is angular cheilitis. This condition may sometimes be triggered by a deficiency of B vitamins. Dill pickles are not particularly rich in those nutrients, so we are mystified as to why they might help. As you say, though, success speaks for itself. Other readers may want to try this remedy.

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About the Author
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies..
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