Inflammation of mucous of the membrane over the tongue is known as glossitis. In Ayurveda, this is called Jihvapaka. It is usually caused by the intake of alcohol, spices, smoking, gastrointestinal as well as metabolic diseases.
The tongue becomes red and at times there are ulcers also. The patient feels difficulty in taking his food.
Alum is very popularly used for the treatment of this disease. In Ayurveda, this is called sphatika. It is fried in a frying pan and gets dehydrated and swollen and the color changes to white. Then it is powdered and the powder mixed with honey is rubbed over the tongue. This powder is also added to a cup of warm water in a dose of 1/2 teaspoonful and this warm water is used for gargling 2 to 3 times a day.
Taking a glass of cold water early in the morning after getting up from the bed, helps in the prevention as well as cure of glossitis.
Glossitis does not permit the patient to chew his food. It is, therefore, advisable to give thin gruel prepared of rice, barely or arrowroot. Turmeric powder is very useful in healing this. It is normally used in condiments. To a cup of milk, about 1/2 teaspoonful of turmeric powder should be added and mixed well. If required, a spoon of sugar can be added to it to make it tasteful. This is to be given to the patient two times a day. This reduces the inflammation and helps in removing constipation.