Mouth ulcers or canker sores are small lesions that appear inside the mouth underneath the lips, cheeks, tongue or at the base of the gums.
Mouth ulcer is a common condition that usually subsides on its own within 10-14 days. But as long as the ulcers persist, they give pain and discomfort. There’s no particular reasons as for why they appear. But a wide range of factors have been linked to their occurrence. These include poor oral hygiene, accidental biting of the inside of the cheek, stress, lack of sleep, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, food sensitivities, reactions to certain medications, and some serious health conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease.
As a matter of fact, mouth ulcers are harmless and can be treated naturally. This article lists 7 home remedies to treat mouth ulcers. Have a look.
#1: Salt Water
Salt Water Rinse is the most recommended remedy for treating mouth ulcers. Salt has antibacterial properties that dehydrates the ulcer-causing bacteria to help it heal.
Mix a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Take a sip of this mixture and swirl it in your mouth from side to side for about 10-15 seconds. Spit out the mixture without swallowing. Repeat this process 3-4 times in a day.
#2: Baking Soda
Baking Soda can be used in form of Solution or Paste to treat mouth ulcers. The acids from the raising pH levels of the mouth can irritate the ulcers and make them more painful. Baking Soda, which is naturally alkaline, neutralizes these acids and helps alleviate the pain. When applied in form of paste, it seals the ulcers, giving them a chance to heal.
Baking Soda Rinse: Baking Soda Rinse is an alternative to the Salt Water Rinse. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda into a cup of warm water. Take a sip of this mixture and swirl it in your mouth from side to side for about 10-15 seconds. Spit out the mixture without swallowing. Repeat this process 3-4 times in a day.
Baking Soda Paste: Take equal amounts of Banking Soda and Water and mix them thoroughly. Using a cotton swab, apply this paste on the ulcer and let it dry. Rinse your mouth using plain water once the paste has dried. Repeat this process 2-3 times in a day.
#3: Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil is a natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral agent. It effectively reduces the redness, inflammation and pain caused by the ulcer and aids in faster healing.
Take a few drops of coconut oil on your finger and apply on the affected area. Repeat a few times in a day.
Did You Know?
A group of researchers in The Philippines are going to run clinical trials to study the effectiveness of Virgin Coconut Oil in the treatment of the global pandemic COVID-19.
#4: Honey
Honey is an amazing food substance that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It stops the growth of the ulcer-causing microbes and minimizes the inflammation, allowing the ulcer to heal faster.
Using a cotton swab, apply a small amount of honey (preferably organic raw manuka honey) on the ulcer . Repeat this process 3-4 times in a day.
#5: Turmeric
Turmeric is a well-known natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent. It fights the ulcer-causing infection and reduces the inflammation, providing quick relief from the discomfort and pain.
Mix a pinch of turmeric with a few drops of water to make a thick paste. Using a cotton swab, apply this paste on the ulcer. Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse your mouth using plain water. Repeat this process twice in a day.
#6: Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is among the most trusted home remedies to treat mouth ulcers. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is an excellent healing agent.
Take a fresh Aloe Vera leaf and slit it from the middle. Gently press to extract the gel and apply it directly on the ulcer. Repeat a few times in a day.
Also Read: 7 Useful Plants You Should Grow at Home.
#7: Apple Cider Vinegar
The alkaline properties of the Apple Cider Vinegar helps in balancing the pH levels of the mouth. It also has antimicrobial properties that kills the ulcer-causing bacteria and helps relieve inflammation.
Add a teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar (preferably organic, with ‘the mother’ in it) in half cup of warm water. Mix it properly. Take a sip of this mixture and swirl it in your mouth from side to side for about 10-15 seconds. Spit out the mixture without swallowing. Now rinse your mouth thoroughly with plain water to avoid any damage to tooth enamel. Repeat this process twice in a day.
Final Take
The above home remedies should work on normal mouth ulcers. However, some ulcers are more severe and require immediate medical attention. Do inform your healthcare professional if you notice anything unusual.
