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.
