I have been buying and using Bonjela for as long as I can remember. I do not suffer from mouth ulcers or cold sores on a regular basis but when I do get them I find them extremely annoying and painful, so for me Bonjela is an essential item in our first aid box. 

Bonjela can be used to relieve the pain caused by ulcers, cold sores, dentures and braces. It helps reduce inflammation and helps fight infection.

The product is packaged in a blue and green box, the brand name is clearly displayed on the front along with the fact that the product contains Choline salicylate and Cetalkonium chloride. 

The words "adult" and "from 16 years only" are now prominent on the front of the box after fears were raised in 2009 that the product could be dangerous for children. It was discovered that there was a link between the salicylates in Bonjela and the rare disease Reyes syndrome which effects the brain and liver. This caused great worry at the time, as many had used Bonjela on their babies to relieve teething pain. There is now a Bonjela product specifically for teething babies which does not contain salicylates.

Warning and storage advice is given on the back of the box. The ingredients, directions for use  and expiry date are given on the sides. 

A few varieties are available including cool mint and sugar free.

Bonjela comes in a 15g blue tube with a screw off white lid, similar information from the box is given on the tube.

The gel itself is clear in colour and has a sticky consistency. It has a distinct Aniseed fragrance. I actually quite like the smell and taste of Bonjela, but of course it may not be to everyones liking.

To use you simply need to squeeze a small amount of the gel onto your finger (approximately one cm) and then massage it onto the sore area. When first applied I feel Bonjela stings a little bit but within a few minutes the pain numbs. In my experience it has always worked efficiently at relieving all the pain and discomfort associated with ulcers and cold sores. Bonjela  effectively numbs the pain for a good couple of hours, it can be reapplied every three hours. I am not too sure that it helps get rid of the cold sore or ulcer any quicker but it certainly makes the problem more bearable.

I have no problems recommending Bonjela for those suffering from cold sores and /or ulcers. I have always found it to be effective at relieving the pain plus its very simple to use. The product offers good value for money, it keeps for quite a while. In my opinion it is an essential first aid box item.

*Pricing*

Boots - £2.80

Superdug - £2.79

* Bonjela is a medicine, it is important to read the instructions carefully before using. If in doubt consult your doctor or pharmacist