Sore throats, sore gums, mouth sores and other mouth and lip problems

July 31, 2025
Matic Konc
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Causes, symptoms and experiences of users of spruce resin products with mouth and lip problems

Problems in the oral cavity, such as sore throat, gingivitis, mouth ulcers, herpes and other changes in the mucous membranes are common troubles that significantly affect the quality of everyday life. They can be caused by a wide range of conditions - from viral and bacterial infections, immunosuppression, stress, inadequate oral hygiene or chronic diseases. In this article you will find an overview of the most common causes, signs and natural options to relieve these problems, together with the experiences of users who have been helped with Smrekovit products.

sore throat

I have been using Sprukovite since 1992. I can't imagine not having it around the house. We all use it. Since my husband and I are getting on in years, we relieve each other of joint, muscle and spinal pain... It helps a lot with colds. It should be applied under and around the nose, and the runny nose quickly subsides. I also use it for sore throat and mouth ulcers. In fact, it works well for almost all conditions. Thank you and many more to come.

Alojzija Turk, Središče ob Dravi

[10] handwritten feedback received on 8.10.2015, stored in the Smrekovit archive

For sore throat I took Smrekovit three times a day and within two days my throat stopped hurting. For a heel spur, I lubricated twice a day and wrapped it with foil. After 14 days of use it improved to 90%.

Erna, Slovenske Konjice

[23] handwritten feedback received on 12.1.2015, stored in the Smrekovit archive

Sore throat

Sore throat with difficulty swallowing is a fairly common problem in people of all ages. There are many different causes of a sore throat, but most often it is an upper respiratory tract infection.

Angina

Angina is a very common condition. It is the most common in children up to puberty, but it is also common in adults. Angina is a condition that causes a sore throat as a result of viral or bacterial infections

The word itself is derived from Latin and means "choking", the most common (in 80%) cause of sore throat is viral angina. Of these, adenoviruses are the most common causative agents, but cold viruses (rhinoviruses and coronaviruses) and orthomyxoviruses (influenza viruses) are also common. Sore throats due to bacterial angina are less common, and the most common causative agent is beta haemolytic streptococcus of group A. Often, however, if the sore throat is ignored, bacterial angina can arise as a secondary infection to the viral angina.

sore throat

I used Smrekovit for nail fungus, warts on the neck, sore throat and sore throat, pain in the thumb joint, and dry skin on my hands and shins. The condition improved and returned to normal.

Zofka, Nova Gorica

[111] handwritten feedback, received 8.5.2017, stored in the Smrekovit archive

I use Smrekovit when I have a sore throat or earache. If it is only mild, one application helps; otherwise, I repeat it.
I also healed my thickened toenail.
I am now using it for the pain in my leg, which has subsided, and I will let you know if it goes away.

User wished to remain anonymous

[121] handwritten feedback received on an unknown date, kept in the Smrekovit archive

Infection with bacteria

bacteria

Bacteria are to blame for sore throats in 5-15% in adults, more common in children. The most common bacterial cause of sore throat is group A beta haemolytic streptococcus.  Infections by clinical examination cannot be separated from a viral infection. Confirmation can only be made by taking a swab of the pharynx. Typical signs of bacterial strep throat are:

bacteria
  • sore throat, 
  • fever (above 38°C), 
  • enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
  • Pus deposits on the tonsils

If there are signs such as runny nose, red cheeks, hoarseness and mouth sores, it is unlikely that the sore throat is due to a bacterial infection and more likely to a viral agent.

sore throat

Infection with cold viruses

sore throats are often caused by colds
Virus

A cold or the common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. It is usually harmless, but annoying because it causes a runny nose and sore throat. It is most common for children up to 6 years, but it can also occur in adults a few times a year. 

Colds are caused by a variety of viruses, but the most common are rhinoviruses and coronaviruses.

Virus

Sore throats and other signs of a cold can disappear within seven to ten days without treatment, but can last longer in smokers. Colds are usually accompanied by symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, slight headache, general malaise, slight fever. Possible complications of a cold include:

  • Otitis media
  • Sinus inflammation
  • a very painful throat caused by a secondary streptococcal infection (strep throat)
  • other secondary infections such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia
  • Colds can trigger asthma attacks in asthmatics

Infection with influenza viruses

bacteria

A sore throat usually accompanies a flu virus infection along with other symptoms. It is a very common contagious viral illness, which presents with the following signs:

  • Sudden high fever above 38°C
  • joint pain
  • Fatigue and exhaustion
  • dry and irritating cough
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • loss of appetite
  • Sleep problems
  • Diarrhoea and abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
Sneezing

Smrekovit is very effective for gingivitis. For all inflammations (including in the mouth) I used it 2x a day. Also in case of burns and insect bites. The inflammation subsided after 2 days and disappeared after a week. We also send spruce buds to our friends in the Czech Republic.

Jože, Orehova vas

[24] handwritten feedback received on an unknown date, kept in the Smrekovit archive

As with any sport, I cannot avoid injuries in telemark skiing. I use spruce products for every injury, because their composition allows the injury to heal faster and, above all, naturally. Whether it's a sprain, a bump, inflammation or just sore throat, I always help myself to them. They say that for every disease a rose grows. For me, it is enough to spruce up. The ointment is really excellent, thank God for it!

David Primožič, World Telemark Skiing Champion 2003

[47] electronic feedback received on 27.8.2007, stored in the Smrekovit archive

Chronic cough

A chronic cough can also cause a sore throat due to constant irritation. A cough is chronic if it lasts more than eight weeks. Chronic cough is most often caused by smoking, oesophageal reflux disease or asthma. When you cough, air travels through your upper airways at the speed of over 150 km/h. If this happens frequently, the lining of the throat and larynx dry and irritate,which causes a sore throat and makes the mucous membranes more susceptible to infection.

Aphthae in the mouth

Sore throats can also be caused by mouth ulcers. Aphthous stomatitis, as mouth ulcers are called, is a common problem in otherwise healthy individuals. The word comes from the Greek word aphtha, which means "mouth ulcer". It refers to harmless and non-contagious and recurrent, ulcerations of the oral mucosa. If mouth ulcers occur in the throat and pharynx, they are accompanied by a sore throat, which is often confused with angina. 

Mouth ulcers are the most common oral problem, affecting up to 66% of people. Periods of disability last without treatment for about 10 days and occur several times a year. Between each period, the mouth ulcers disappear completely. The cause of mouth ulcers is not clear, but it is linked to the immune system, as ulcers are infiltrated with T lymphocytes. It was once believed that aphthae were caused by the herpes virus because of the similarity between herpes and aphthae, but this theory has been repeatedly disproved, and it is true that aphthae can occur in younger children. The first infection with the herpes virus can manifest as gingivostomatitis, which begins with symptoms similar to mouth ulcers. 

Aphthae in the mouth

Mouth ulcers are most often caused by drops in immunity due to a lack of certain nutrients, allergies, hormonal influences or stress. They are more common in people who have in the family relatives who also get mouth ulcers and people who have inflammation and ulcers in the stomach and intestinal lining.

What are the signs of mouth ulcers?

Mouth ulcers are caused exclusively by problems in the oral cavity and are not accompanied by systemic symptoms. It is characterised by severe, burning pain that seems out of proportion to the size of the ulcer. Pain increases sharply when the aphthae in the mouth come into contact with food, especially if it is acidic or burning. If the mouth ulcers are located in the throat area, swallowing difficulties and sore throat are typical.

Mouth ulcers usually begin as red spots on the mucous membrane, which then develop into ulcers covered with a yellowish-grey membrane. The ulcer is surrounded by redness.

Last December, I had a pretty bad case of viral illness with a sore ear. I was rubbing my neck against my ear and my nose. I was amazed at how clean I got and how much dirt there is in a person. I also ingested the ointment when I had my last cold, and I think that this also contributed to the intense cleansing. Also mouth ulcers and initial inflammation in the corner of the mouth with this ointment disappears very quickly.

Andreja, Ljubljana

[108] handwritten feedback, received 3.2.2017, stored in the Smrekovit archive

I have been using Sprukovite for 20 years for all forms of colds, nail fungus, muscle aches, stomach problems, for mouth ulcers, rheumatic problems, cold feet. It is very effective and of good quality and has been tested over the years.

User requested to remain anonymous

[120] handwritten feedback, received 12.3.2019, stored in the Smrekovit archive

Herpes

Herpes

Herpes is an unpleasant rash that appears on the skin around the lips and sometimes in the genital area. It begins with itching, followed by the formation of a blistering rash that breaks open after a few days , leaving a shallow ulcer that scabs over. Without treatment, it can last up to four weeks , but if treatment begins at the itching stage, Lasts up to four weeks without treatmentthe outbreak can often be suppressed before it develops fully. 

bacteria-viruses.png

Herpes is caused by Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. It is transmitted by direct contact. Herpes infection is not dangerousfor healthy adults, but it can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening for newborns who have not yet developed an immune system, as the virus can reach the brain.

First infection with herpes simplex virus most often occurs in childhood and sometimes manifests as gingivistomatitis or salivary gland rash, sometimes as a common herpetic rash. Salivary gland disease is caused by gum receding and severe drooling and ulcers in the oral cavity. similar to aphthae in the mouth. Inflamed gums, sore throats and mucous membranes make it impossible to eat solid foods. After the first infection, the immune system isolates the virus, which in turn persists in the bodies of local sensory neurons. When immunity drops due to illness, stress and other factors, the Herpes virus starts reproducing again and travels up the nerve to the skin, causing the rash again. 

herpes - mechanism of action

I have had Herpesoutbreaks several times. I tried Smrekovit twice, and after three days only a trace of herpes remained. Smrekovit is excellent!

Christian Eva, Facebook

[45] Facebook feedback

A few years ago I had unbearable pain in my heel (thorn in the side). A friend recommended Smrekovit. I lubricated my heel twice a day for a couple of weeks. The pain disappeared and did not reappear. I also use Smrekovit for colds, Herpes and insect stings.

Jožica Jarc, Bistrica ob Dravi

[15] handwritten feedback received on 4.9.2018, stored in the Smrekovit archive

I am a regular user. I can say that Sprukovite is my faithful and constant companion. It has an extraordinary power. It makes everything so much easier. It does not change overnight, but everything is much milder and requires a much shorter healing period. It has helped me with blisters, burns, warts, herpes, abrasions... in short, it covers a huge range of problems. I trust him 100% and recommend him further.

Branka, Izola

[66] handwritten feedback received on 30.1.2017, stored in the Smrekovit archive

Gingivitis

Gingivitis

Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, is an extremely common problem of the oral cavity, occurring at least once in almost every person’s lifetime. The most common form is inflammation of the gums in response to bacterial plaque on the surface of your teeth. If gingivitis is neglected and if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. Often, although gingivitis does not progress to periodontitis, periodontitis always develops from normal gingivitis. Periodontitis can then progress to severe inflammation of the gums and gum tissues, with bleeding, a pocket between the tooth and the gum, which is an ideal breeding ground for more bacteria, and over time the tooth starts to wobble and fall out.

In children, sore gums and sore throats can accompany a first infection with the herpes virus, which manifests itself as salivary gland disease or herpetic gingivostomatitis.

How does gingivitis develop?

gingivitis - the course

Plaque forms on the surface of teeth and is the most common cause of gingivitis. Dental plaque is a transparent, sticky film, produced when bacteria present in the oral cavity metabolise sugars from food.

If plaque is not removed by brushing, it eventually mineralises, hardens and turns into tartar, which is even more difficult to remove. Tartar also provides bacteria with additional protection, which leads to gingivitis.

Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis , a severe inflammation of the gums and surrounding tissues that can eventually lead to tooth loss.

How does gingivitis manifest itself?

Healthy gums are firm and pale pink and tightly surround the teeth. Gingivitis is manifested by the following signs:

  • Swollen and soft gums
  • Dark red gums
  • bleeding gums when brushing are the first sign of gingivitis
  • Bad breath
  • Sore gums
  • Pockets between the gum and the tooth
  • in the case of salivary gland disease or herpetic gingivostomatitis, the above symptoms are accompanied by drooling, mouth sores like aphthae and a sore throat.

Shortly after you started your production, I heard about your products. Both my husband and I find the Sprukovit products very helpful and we are very happy with them. I put it on my lower back, shoulders, neck, legs and calves at night before going to bed and it makes it easier for me to sleep. The fungus on my leg has gone away. Gingivitis was cured the next day. I don't even try other products anymore. Everyone in our family uses them.

Marija, Radomlje

[73] handwritten feedback, received 21.3.2016, stored in the Smrekovit archive

For a while, I also took Smrekovit alongside my ulcerative colitis medication. After twenty years of continuous problems, I have now had three years of peace. It also helps me tremendously for gingivitiswhere I have a partial denture. Also for nail infections. I put ointment on everything that hurts: my back, my joints... It helps a lot. I also use it for various viroses, I anoint my neck, chest, nasal cavity, ears. It shortens the time of the illness a lot.

Polona, Bled

[80] handwritten feedback, received 12.10.2016, stored in the Smrekovit archive

Frequently asked questions

What causes a sore throat?

A sore throat can be caused by a variety of factors, such as viral or bacterial infections, allergies, dry air, irritation from cigarette smoke or chemical substances, as well as excessive straining of the vocal cords.

How can we relieve a sore throat at home?

To relieve a sore throat at home, use Smrekovit oral spray, drink warm teas with honey, take throat lozenges, humidify the air, and get plenty of rest.

What are mouth ulcers and how do we treat them at home?

Mouth ulcers are small, painful sores that are white or yellow with a reddish border. They can be caused by injury, stress, certain foods or vitamin deficiencies. Use Smrekovit oral spray to treat mouth ulcers at home.

How can gingivitis be treated at home?

Inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis, causes red, swollen and bleeding gums. At home, gingivitis can be treated by regular brushing and flossing, using Smrekovit oral spray, rinsing with antiseptic mouthwash and using appropriate toothpaste. Avoiding sugary foods and improving oral hygiene are also helpful.

4 comments

  • ivanusic.natasa

    I also recommend it for stomach problems, and again I take the ointment for pain. It is bitter, but there is a bit of penance. You get used to the taste. Not to mention the regular use of the ointment for the good health of my knees (I am an avid hillwalker and walk over 30 double-thousanders in summer), lower back, shoulder girdle, neck... Also, we use the spruce ointment for all practices, abrasions, cuts in our home.
    The spray is very effective for sinuses (it's not meant for the nose, more for oral use, I understand), I experimented a bit and sprayed it in my nose - well, it pretty much stuck right in my brain, but my nose got soaked :-). Ivo advised me to spray my finger and just lubricate the mucous membranes in my nose. The initial inflammation heals nicely.

    • A

      Thank you for your honest comment ???????? We're glad to hear that you've been using Smrekovit so faithfully for a variety of ailments - from stomach, joint and muscle problems to scratches and inflammation. It's also great to hear about your experience with the spray ????

  • ivanusic.natasa

    I have been using Spruce Ointment for about 15 years. Ivo told me a few years ago that I could eat it :-).Whenever I get a sore throat, I immediately take a teaspoon 3-5 times a day, smear it on my palate and swallow after a minute. It never needs to be used for more than 3 days for the matter to settle down.
    I also healed a 5×2 cm oil burn on my forearm very effectively last year, when the skin peeled off immediately at the moment of the injury.I cooled it under lukewarm water for 20 minutes, then applied the ointment and covered it with sterile gauze. It didn't hurt, the leo healed in about 3 weeks. I applied the ointment once a day.

    • A

      Thank you so much for sharing such a long experience ???????? It is really valuable to hear that Sprukovite has been helping you for more than 15 years - with your throat, as well as with burns and skin healing. We're glad it can prove itself time and time again ????

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