7 Effective Natural Remedies for Canker Sores and 2 You Should Avoid

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside your mouth. Unlike cold sores, which appear on the lips or outside the mouth, canker sores are not contagious and usually occur inside the mouth, on the cheeks, gums, or tongue. While these sores are generally harmless and heal on their own within a week or two, they can cause significant discomfort, making eating and talking difficult.

If you're prone to canker sores, you're likely familiar with the discomfort they cause. While over-the-counter treatments are available, many people prefer natural remedies to help ease the pain and speed up healing. In this article, we'll explore seven of the best natural remedies for canker sores and discuss two that you should probably skip.

1. Saltwater Rinse

Why It Works: Saltwater is one of the oldest and most effective natural remedies for canker sores. Salt has natural antiseptic properties that can help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with canker sores. Additionally, saltwater helps keep the sore clean, preventing infection and promoting faster healing.

How to Use It:

• Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
• Swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out.
• Repeat this process 3-4 times daily until the sore heals.

Scientific Support: Saltwater rinses have been shown to reduce the severity of canker sores and promote healing by reducing the bacterial load in the mouth. This method is simple, effective, and has no side effects, making it a go-to remedy for many.

2. Honey

Why It Works: Honey is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent that can help soothe the pain of canker sores and speed up the healing process. Its sticky texture helps it adhere to the sore, providing a protective barrier against irritants.

How to Use It:

• Apply a small amount of raw honey directly to the canker sore using a clean cotton swab.
• Reapply 2-3 times daily, especially after meals.

Scientific Support: A study published in the Quintessence International journal found that honey was effective in reducing the pain, size, and redness of canker sores within a few days of application. The anti-inflammatory and healing properties of honey make it a highly effective natural remedy.

3. Coconut Oil

Why It Works: Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, making it a versatile remedy for canker sores. It can help reduce pain and inflammation while preventing infection in the affected area.

How to Use It:

• Dab a small amount of virgin coconut oil onto the canker sore using a clean finger or cotton swab.
• Reapply several times a day, especially after eating.

Scientific Support: Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, a fatty acid known for its antimicrobial properties. Research has shown that coconut oil can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, which may help prevent canker sores from becoming infected and promote faster healing.

4. Aloe Vera

Why It Works: Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and healing properties. It can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with canker sores, as well as speed up the healing process.

How to Use It:

• Cut a small piece of fresh aloe vera leaf and extract the gel.
• Apply the gel directly to the canker sore.
• Repeat 2-3 times daily until the sore heals.

Scientific Support: A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry found that aloe vera gel was effective in reducing the size, pain, and healing time of canker sores. Aloe vera's anti-inflammatory and soothing properties make it a popular natural remedy for various skin and mucous membrane conditions, including canker sores.

5. Baking Soda

Why It Works: Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is an alkaline substance that can help neutralize acids in the mouth, thereby reducing irritation and pain. It also has mild antiseptic properties that can help prevent infection.

How to Use It:

• Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste.
• Apply the paste directly to the canker sore using a cotton swab.
• Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse your mouth with water.
• Repeat 2-3 times daily.

Scientific Support: Research indicates that baking soda can help restore the pH balance in the mouth and create an environment less conducive to bacterial growth. This can aid in reducing the pain and duration of canker sores.

6. Chamomile Tea

Why It Works: Chamomile is a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic that can help reduce the pain and swelling associated with canker sores. It also contains compounds like bisabolol and chamazulene, which promote healing.

How to Use It:

• Steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for a few minutes.
• Once the tea bag has cooled slightly, place it directly on the canker sore for 5-10 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can rinse your mouth with cooled chamomile tea.
• Repeat 2-3 times daily.

Scientific Support: Chamomile has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments, including oral sores. Studies have shown that chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce pain and speed up the healing process of canker sores.

7. Sage

Why It Works: Sage is an herb with natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat oral conditions, including canker sores.

How to Use It:

• Boil a handful of fresh sage leaves in water for a few minutes.
• Allow the mixture to cool, then strain it.
• Use the cooled sage water as a mouth rinse, swishing it around your mouth for about a minute before spitting it out.
• Repeat 2-3 times daily.

Scientific Support: Sage has been studied for its medicinal properties, and research supports its use as an effective remedy for oral health issues. The antimicrobial properties of sage can help prevent infection, while its astringent effects can reduce the size and discomfort of canker sores.

Remedies to Skip

While many natural remedies are effective for canker sores, some are less beneficial or even potentially harmful. Here are two remedies that you should skip:

1. Hydrogen Peroxide

Why You Should Skip It: Hydrogen peroxide is often recommended as a treatment for canker sores due to its antiseptic properties. However, using hydrogen peroxide in high concentrations or too frequently can irritate the delicate tissues in your mouth, potentially worsening the sore and delaying healing.

Scientific Perspective: Hydrogen peroxide can be overly harsh on oral tissues, especially when used undiluted. It can cause a burning sensation and damage the surrounding tissues, which may lead to prolonged healing times. Therefore, it's best to avoid using hydrogen peroxide as a remedy for canker sores.

2. Citrus Fruits

Why You Should Skip It: Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are highly acidic, which can irritate canker sores and exacerbate the pain. While vitamin C is essential for immune function and healing, the acid content in citrus fruits can be too harsh for canker sores.

Scientific Perspective: The acidity in citrus fruits can cause stinging and irritation when it comes into contact with a canker sore. While it's important to maintain a diet rich in vitamin C, it's better to get your nutrients from less acidic sources, especially if you're prone to canker sores.

Conclusion

Canker sores are a common oral health issue that can cause significant discomfort. While they usually heal on their own, natural remedies can help alleviate pain and speed up the healing process. Saltwater rinses, honey, coconut oil, aloe vera, baking soda, chamomile tea, and sage are all effective, scientifically-supported options for treating canker sores. However, it's important to avoid remedies like hydrogen peroxide and citrus fruits, which can worsen the condition.

If your canker sores persist or worsen, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. By using these natural remedies wisely and avoiding potential irritants, you can manage canker sores effectively and enjoy better oral health.