Home Remedies  for Mouth Ulcer (Canker Sores) and Their Treatment

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If you’re dealing with a painful canker sore, you may be wondering how to treat it naturally at home. The good news is that many effective remedies for mouth ulcers can be found right in your kitchen. These natural solutions may help reduce pain, inflammation, and the time it takes to heal when used consistently.

Here are some well-known and research-supported home remedies for managing mouth ulcers:

1. Honey

Honey is one of the most widely used natural remedies for mouth ulcers due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties [2]. It also acts as an emollient, soothing the ulcerated area and helping prevent secondary infections.

How to use:

Apply a small amount of raw, organic honey directly to the sore. For best results, look for medical-grade or thyme honey [2].

Repeat this 2–3 times a day for relief and faster healing.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Mouthwash

Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which has antibacterial properties that may help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth. It’s often used as a natural mouthwash for inflammation and mouth sores.

How to use:

Mix 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of water.

Swish the mixture in your mouth for 30–50 seconds, then spit it out.

Rinse thoroughly with plain water afterwards to avoid enamel damage. Use once daily until symptoms improve.

Disclaimer: ACV is acidic and can irritate open sores in some people. Discontinue use if irritation worsens.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. While direct research on canker sores is limited, oil pulling with virgin coconut oil has been suggested to improve overall oral hygiene and reduce inflammation [3]. It may help reduce inflammation and redness.

How to use:

Apply a small amount of virgin coconut oil directly to the ulcer using a clean finger or cotton swab.

Repeat 2–3 times daily. Bonus: it also has a mild and pleasant taste!

4. Turmeric Paste

Turmeric contains curcumin, a natural compound renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties [4]. It can help soothe pain and aid healing of mouth sores.

How to use:

Mix a pinch of turmeric powder with a few drops of water to form a thick paste.

Gently apply the paste to the affected area and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.

5. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is widely known for its soothing and healing properties, especially for skin conditions. Interestingly, it can also be beneficial in managing mouth ulcers due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects [5].

How to use:

Extract fresh aloe vera gel from the leaf and apply it directly to the ulcer using a clean finger or cotton swab.

Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing. This process can be repeated 2–3 times daily to help reduce pain and promote healing.

Disclaimer: Always use pure, fresh aloe vera gel from a reputable source or leaf to avoid added preservatives or irritants.

6. Ghee

Ghee, a clarified butter commonly used in cooking, is also traditionally valued for its potential healing properties, including soothing mouth ulcers. It may help reduce inflammation and provide a protective barrier over the ulcer. There is limited clinical data to support this traditional use.

How to use:

Take a small amount of ghee on your finger and gently apply it to the affected area.

Allow it to sit for a while before rinsing your mouth with fresh water.

Repeat this process daily to help soothe discomfort and support healing.

7. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a common home remedy for mouth ulcers due to its ability to neutralise acids, and it may help restore the natural pH balance in the mouth. This action can reduce inflammation and promote healing.

How to use:

Mix a small amount of baking soda in water to form a solution.

Gently swirl this mixture in your mouth for about 60 seconds, then spit it out.

Repeat this once or twice daily as needed.

8. Garlic

Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate pain and support the healing of mouth ulcers.

How to use:

Gently rub a small piece of fresh garlic on the affected area for 2–3 minutes, then rinse your mouth with water.

Use caution, as garlic can sometimes irritate if applied excessively due to its potency.

9. Saltwater Rinse

Saltwater rinses are a time-tested and effective home remedy for mouth ulcers. Salt may help reduce inflammation, cleanse the affected area, and protect the mouth from harmful bacteria.

How to use:

Dissolve about half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.

Gently swirl the solution around your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds, then spit it out.

This rinse can provide soothing relief and promote healing when used several times a day.

Dietary and Lifestyle Changes to Prevent and Manage Sores

Foods to Avoid

When dealing with mouth ulcers, avoiding certain foods can help reduce irritation and promote faster healing. The following types of foods are best limited or avoided:

Acidic foods, such as citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), tomatoes, and their products, can aggravate sores due to their acidity.

Spicy foods containing hot peppers, chilli, and other strong spices may increase pain and inflammation.

Crunchy or abrasive foods, such as chips, crackers, nuts, and raw vegetables, can physically irritate or scrape the ulcerated areas.

High-sodium foods, carbonated beverages, alcohol, and very hot drinks, all of which can worsen discomfort and delay healing.

By steering clear of these irritants, you can help create a gentler environment in your mouth, allowing ulcers to heal more effectively.

How to Prevent Mouth Ulcers?

To reduce the occurrence of mouth ulcers, it is essential to minimise exposure to common triggers and maintain good oral hygiene. Here are some effective prevention tips:

Avoid foods that can irritate the mouth, such as acidic, spicy, and crunchy items.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently to avoid injuring the delicate tissues inside your mouth.

Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Limit intake of caffeinated and carbonated beverages, as these can dry out the mouth and increase susceptibility to ulcers.

Manage stress through relaxation techniques, as emotional stress is a known trigger for many people [1].

Consider taking a high-quality B-vitamin complex, as deficiencies (e.g., in B12, folate) are sometimes linked to recurrent canker sores [6].

By adopting these habits, you can help protect your mouth from ulcers and promote overall oral health.

When to See a Doctor?

Most canker sores respond well to home remedies and typically heal within one to two weeks. However, if your mouth ulcers do not improve or worsen despite treatment, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly.

A healthcare professional may prescribe topical medications such as:

Candid Mouth Gel (8.7/2%)

Cinort Paste (0.1%)

Dologel CT (8.7/2%)

Fitgel Mouth Ulcer Gel

Glencore Gel

Persistent or long-lasting mouth ulcers that do not heal (lasting more than 3 weeks), or ulcers accompanied by increasing pain, fever, a large size, or signs of secondary infection could be a sign of a more serious condition, including the potential risk of oral cancer. Early evaluation by a doctor or dentist is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Conclusion

Mouth ulcers, though common and often harmless, can cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily activities. Most ulcers can be managed with simple home remedies and lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding irritant foods and maintaining good oral hygiene. However, persistent, painful, or worsening ulcers warrant prompt medical evaluation to rule out severe conditions and receive appropriate treatment. By understanding the causes, preventive measures, and effective treatments, you can better manage mouth ulcers and promote faster healing for a healthier mouth.

Expert Quote

“Mouth ulcers are a frequent yet painful issue that can typically be managed successfully with basic home remedies and good oral care. Natural treatments, such as honey, turmeric, and saltwater rinses, are useful for alleviating symptoms, but it’s crucial to monitor ulcers that persist or worsen. Seeking prompt medical advice allows for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, particularly to exclude more serious underlying conditions. A focus on a balanced diet, avoiding irritants, and managing stress effectively are essential steps to prevent future outbreaks.”

– Dr. Kavya Rejikumar

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the fastest way to relieve pain from mouth ulcers?

The fastest relief often comes from topical treatments such as medicated mouthwashes or gels containing ingredients like benzocaine, fluocinonide, or lidocaine, which help reduce pain and promote faster healing.

Can salt remove mouth ulcers?

Salt can help alleviate symptoms by reducing acidity and soothing pain. Rinsing the mouth with a warm saltwater solution (half a teaspoon of salt dissolved in water) helps support healing and reduce bacterial growth. Salt does not “remove” the ulcer, but rather supports its natural healing process.

Is honey good for mouth ulcers?

Yes, honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid healing. Applying honey directly to the sore several times a day may provide relief and speed up recovery [2].

How to cure mouth ulcers fast naturally?

A quicker natural remedy is often a saltwater or baking soda rinse to help neutralise the area and reduce pain. However, it is important to understand that no home remedy can guarantee a rapid “cure,” as the natural healing time is about one to two weeks. Focus on consistent application of soothing remedies like honey or aloe vera [5].

Can I apply turmeric to mouth ulcers?

Yes, turmeric’s antimicrobial properties make it effective for mouth ulcers [4]. Apply a paste made from turmeric powder and water twice daily to the affected area.

Which fruit is good for mouth ulcers?

No specific fruit is recommended during active ulcers. It is best to avoid acidic or spicy fruits, such as citrus, and instead focus on soothing, non-irritating foods like bananas or melons.

Can we eat curd when we have mouth ulcers?

Yes, probiotic yoghurt (curd) can be beneficial by restoring healthy bacteria in the mouth and may aid in the healing process by promoting a balanced oral microbiome.

Which drinks are good for mouth ulcers?

Cool, non-acidic drinks consumed through a straw are ideal, as they minimise irritation. Avoid hot, spicy, or acidic beverages while you have ulcers. Plain water or non-citrus herbal teas (when cooled) are the best choices.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider before beginning any new wellness practice, especially if you have an existing medical condition or are on medication.

References

[1] National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2022). Mouth sores (canker sores). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/mouth-sores-canker-sores

[2] Ghalwash, D., El-Gawish, A., Ammar, A., & Abou-Bakr, A. (2024). Efficacy of thyme honey in the management of oral aphthous ulcers: A randomized controlled clinical trial. European Journal of Oral Sciences, 132(2), e13032. https://doi.org/10.1111/eos.13032

[3] Woolley, J., Gibbons, T., Patel, K., & Sacco, R. (2020). The effect of oil pulling with coconut oil to improve dental hygiene and oral health: A systematic review. Heliyon, 6(8), e04789. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04789

[4] Umapathy, V. R. (2022). Effects of turmeric (Curcuma longa) on oral health. Bioinformation, 18(6), 538–542. https://doi.org/10.6026/97320630018538

[5] Babaee, N., Zabihi, E., Mohseni, S., & Moghadamnia, A. A. (2012). Evaluation of the therapeutic effects of Aloe vera gel on minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Dental Research Journal (Isfahan), 9(4), 381–385. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3491322/

[6] Volkov, I., Rudoy, I., Freud, T., & Hallak, M. (2021). Vitamin B12 deficiency and recurrent aphthous stomatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Oral Diseases, 27(5), 1152–1159. https://doi.org/10.1111/odi.13593

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