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| - Last Updated on July 15, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post says that eating pani puri can cure mouth ulcers. We fact-checked and found this claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
A YouTube video claims that eating pani puri can cure mouth blisters in one day.
Fact Check
What is Pani Puri?
According to Britannica Gol gappa, also known as pani puri, is a widely enjoyed chaat delicacy. It features a small, hollow, and crunchy fried ball that is filled with a mixture of potatoes, chickpeas, onions, spices, and flavoured water, typically tamarind or mint. This bite-sized treat is typically consumed in one bite, creating a burst of flavours in the mouth.
According to a historian Puspesh pant it is challenging to determine the exact origin and inventor of gol gappas (panipuris). The popular street food’s creation appears to have occurred accidentally, making it difficult to trace its precise origins and identify the specific person responsible for its invention.
How is pani puri made?
In her book Tarla Dalal, a renowned chef and cookbook author wrote that a very common method involves preparing a dough using semolina, all-purpose flour, baking soda, oil, and salt. The dough is then rested and rolled out into small puris. These puris are deep-fried until they turn crispy and golden. For the pani (flavoured water), a blend of mint leaves, coriander, green chilli, ginger, tamarind pulp, black salt, cumin powder, chaat masala, and water is prepared. The filling typically consists of boiled potatoes, chickpeas, onions, and a mix of spices. The puris are filled with the potato-chickpea mixture and dipped into the flavorful pani before being eaten.
Are there any health benefits of eating Panipuri?
Panipuri, being a street food, is primarily enjoyed for its taste and culinary experience rather than its health benefits. While it contains ingredients like chickpeas, potatoes, and spices, which provide some nutritional value, the overall health benefits of panipuri are limited. It is important to note that panipuri is often deep-fried and consumed in large quantities, which can contribute to an unhealthy diet.
What is oral ulcer?
An oral ulcer, also known as a mouth ulcer or canker sore, is a painful sore or lesion that develops inside the mouth. It is a common condition characterised by a round or oval-shaped open wound with a white or yellowish appearance surrounded by a red border. Oral ulcers can occur on the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, gums, or the roof of the mouth. They can be caused by various factors such as injury, irritation, stress, hormonal changes, certain medical conditions, or viral infections. While most oral ulcers heal on their own within one to two weeks, they can be uncomfortable and may interfere with eating, drinking, and speaking.
Is the claim that pani puri prevents oral ulcers supported by evidence?
There is no scientific evidence specifically supporting the claim that pani puri prevents oral ulcers. However, some ingredients commonly used in pani puri, such as mint and coriander, are known for their potential health benefits. Mint possesses antibacterial properties, while coriander has anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, tamarind, another ingredient in pani puri, is rich in antioxidants. Nevertheless, it’s important to consider that the overall nutritional value of pani puri is limited, and factors like deep-frying and high salt content may outweigh any potential benefits. Maintaining good oral hygiene and following a well-balanced diet are crucial for preventing and managing oral ulcers.
Do spices used in Pani puri prevent oral ulcer?
No. A study examined the effects of popular Indian spices chilli powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. They mixed 5 grams of each spice with 50 ml of water to create an aqueous solution. One tooth was immersed in each spice solution and left undisturbed for 10 days. Turmeric powder had the highest erosive potential, while coriander powder had the mildest effect. The findings caution against consuming spices without considering their potential impact on oral health.
According to Dr Ketan Rajput, BDS, MDS (Periodontology and Implantology) “Oral ulcers are commonly painful sores that manifest in the oral cavity. They can cause discomfort during eating, drinking, and speaking. Various factors, including stress, can contribute to the development of oral ulcers. While Pani puri, a popular snack enjoyed by many, may provide temporary relief and act as a stress reliever, it is not sufficient to solely heal oral ulcers. Appropriate medications and lozenges are often necessary for effective treatment. It is important to consume Pani puri in moderation and under hygienic conditions to avoid any potential exacerbation of oral ulcers.”
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