Home Remedy Tips to Treat Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, painful lesions that develop in the mouth or at the base of the gums. They can make eating, drinking, and talking uncomfortable. While they usually heal on their own within one to two weeks, several home remedies can help alleviate the pain and promote faster healing.

1. Salt Water Rinse

Salt has natural antiseptic properties that can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.

• How to use: Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Swish the solution around in your mouth for 30 seconds and then spit it out. Repeat this process 3-4 times a day.

2. Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda helps restore pH balance and reduces inflammation.

• How to use: Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply this paste directly to the mouth ulcer. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth with water. Repeat this 2-3 times a day.

3. Honey

Honey has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and heal mouth ulcers.

• How to use: Apply a small amount of honey directly to the ulcer. Reapply 2-3 times a day, especially after meals.

4. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and speed up healing.

• How to use: Apply a small amount of coconut oil directly to the ulcer. Reapply several times a day. You can also swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for about 10 minutes (oil pulling) and then spit it out.

5. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has soothing and healing properties that can help alleviate pain and promote healing.

• How to use: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the ulcer. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing your mouth with water. Repeat 2-3 times a day.

6. Turmeric Paste

Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

• How to use: Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a few drops of water to make a paste. Apply this paste to the ulcer and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing with water. Do this 2-3 times a day.

7. Chamomile Tea Bag

Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help reduce pain and promote healing.

• How to use: Steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for a few minutes. Let it cool slightly and then place the tea bag directly on the ulcer for about 5 minutes. Repeat 2-3 times a day.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties that can help reduce the risk of infection.

• How to use: Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water. Swish the solution around in your mouth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out. Use this rinse once a day.

9. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

Hydrogen peroxide can help disinfect the ulcer and reduce bacteria in the mouth.

• How to use: Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water. Dip a cotton swab in the solution and apply it directly to the ulcer. You can also use the mixture as a mouth rinse. Repeat 2-3 times a day.

10. Yogurt

Yogurt contains probiotics that can help balance the bacteria in your mouth and aid in healing.

• How to use: Eat a few spoonfuls of plain yogurt daily. Make sure it contains live cultures for the best results.

Additional Tips

• Avoid Irritating Foods: Stay away from spicy, acidic, and rough-textured foods that can irritate the ulcer.
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash to keep your mouth clean.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and to help flush out bacteria.
• Use a Straw: When drinking beverages, use a straw to minimize contact with the ulcer and reduce pain.

Conclusion

While these home remedies can help alleviate the symptoms and promote the healing of mouth ulcers, it's essential to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid irritating foods. If mouth ulcers persist for more than two weeks, become more painful, or are accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.