8 Natural Remedies for Canker Sores

Canker sores, or aphthous ulcer, are small, painful lesions that develop inside your mouth. They commonly appear after stress, minor mouth injuries, or hormonal changes, as well as with certain vitamin deficiencies.

These sores usually resolve on their own. If you're looking for ways to ease canker sore pain and speed up the healing process, there are strategies you can use at home.

1. Saltwater Rinse

A saltwater (saline) rinse is one of the most straightforward and easy-to-use home remedies for canker sores. Salt has natural antibacterial properties that can help prevent infection and promote healing. Research suggests saline rinses can reduce inflammation and make it difficult for harmful bacteria to thrive.

How To Use:4

• Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt into 1 cup of warm water
• Swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out
• Repeat this process two to three times per day until the sore has healed

2. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which reduce inflammation and promote the healing of canker sores. It can also help soothe pain and irritation. Research suggests extracts from the chamomile plant are helpful.

How To Use:5

• Steep a bag of chamomile tea in hot water for a few minutes
• Once it cools slightly, drink the tea, or press the damp tea bag against your canker sore for several minutes
• Repeat three to four times per day

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has properties that may help fight bacteria and promote healing, though it can cause a burning sensation. Apple cider vinegar may alter the pH level in your mouth, making it less likely for bacteria to cause an infection.

More research is needed to understand better how apple cider vinegar may affect canker sores specifically, so use it with caution. Frequent use of vinegar may be damaging to your teeth, so be sure to dilute it.

How To Use:

• Dilute 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in 1/2 to 1 cup of water
• Swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out
• Rinse with plain water
• Use once a day to avoid irritation and damage to your teeth

4. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is recognized for its ability to kill bacteria, prevent infections, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing. It also acts as a mild antiseptic, keeping wounds clean and reducing irritation.

Hydrogen peroxide is dangerous if you swallow it or use too much. Be sure not to swallow it.

How To Use:1

• Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water
• Dip a cotton swab in the solution and dab it onto your canker sore
• Let it sit for a few seconds, then spit it out
• Repeat three to four times daily

5. Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) may help neutralize acids and reduce inflammation, which can help ease canker sore pain. Research indicates that it can also help restore the pH balance in the mouth and decrease bacterial growth.

How To Use:12

• Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to form a paste
• Apply it to the sore for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water
• Repeat once or twice daily

6. Honey

Honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a soothing remedy for canker sores. Honey may reduce ulcer pain, size, and redness, and it may help accelerate healing.

Honey also contains sugar, so make sure it's appropriate for your dietary needs and follow good oral hygiene practices.

How To Use:

• Rinse your mouth with water
• Apply a small amount of raw honey to the sore
• Swallow the honey instead of spitting it out

7. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is well-known for its soothing effects on the skin and mucous membranes, making it an excellent option for canker sores. Research suggests aloe vera can reduce pain and inflammation while promoting faster wound healing in the mouth.

How To Use:14

• Apply a small amount of pure aloe vera gel directly to the sore
• Avoid eating for 30 minutes to an hour after application
• Repeat up to three times a day

8. Vitamin B Supplements

Deficiencies in vitamin B12 have been linked to frequent canker sores. Studies suggest that individuals with recurrent mouth ulcers may have lower levels of vitamin B. Supplementing the vitamin may help prevent and decrease the healing time if you do get a canker sore.

How To Use:

• Take a vitamin B12 supplement as recommended by your healthcare provider.
• Consume foods rich in vitamin B12, such as eggs, dairy, and fortified cereals.

Prevention and Triggers To Avoid

Preventing canker sores starts with identifying and avoiding triggers that aggravate them or make the pain worse. For example, avoid alcohol-containing mouthwashes while you have a canker sore; this can aggravate the sore and make it worse.

To help avoid or prevent canker sores and the pain, try these strategies:

• Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to protect your oral health. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth gently, avoiding too much force.
• If you notice that emotional stress triggers your canker sores, practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing.
• Stay hydrated. A dry mouth can worsen irritation and slow healing.
• Get routine dental health check-ups.
• Avoid acidic, salty, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that can irritate your mouth or cause minor injuries that can trigger canker sores.

When To Seek Medical Help

Most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks. Consider getting medical attention if:

• Your sores are unusually large or persist for more than two weeks.
• You have multiple sores at once or frequent recurrences.
• You also have a fever or other unusual symptoms like a headache, skin rash, or diarrhea.

A Quick Review

Canker sores can be painful. Natural remedies, including honey, aloe vera, and saltwater rinses, among others, may help ease discomfort and accelerate healing. Preventing triggers and maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce the frequency of canker sores. It's important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions if canker sores persist or worsen.

Source: Health.com