Mouth sores, also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers, are small and painful lesions that develop on the soft tissues in the mouth. They can be quite uncomfortable and can interfere with eating, drinking, and speaking.
While they may heal on their own within a week or two, there are several home remedies that can help alleviate the pain, reduce inflammation, and speed up the healing process. Here are 10 effective home remedies for mouth sores:.
1. Saltwater Rinse
Making a saltwater rinse is an age-old remedy for mouth sores. It helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Simply dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this several times a day, especially after meals.
2. Honey
Honey is known for its antibacterial and healing properties. Applying a small amount of honey directly to the mouth sore can help soothe the pain and promote healing.
You can also mix equal parts of honey and turmeric powder to create a paste and apply it to the sore.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and has antimicrobial properties. Dab a small amount of coconut oil directly onto the sore a few times a day to keep it moisturized and prevent further irritation.
4. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel is widely known for its healing properties and can help soothe mouth sores. Apply a small amount of fresh aloe vera gel directly to the sore a few times a day. You can also rinse your mouth with aloe vera juice to reduce inflammation.
5. Baking Soda
Baking soda can help neutralize the acidity in the mouth and promote healing of mouth sores. Dissolve one teaspoon of baking soda in half a cup of warm water and use it as a mouth rinse several times a day.
Alternatively, you can make a paste by mixing baking soda with a little water and apply it directly to the sore.
6. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Brew a cup of chamomile tea, let it cool down, and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. You can repeat this several times a day to relieve pain and inflammation.
7. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating mouth sores. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it directly to the sore.
Make sure to do a patch test before using tea tree oil, as it can cause irritation in some individuals.
8. Clove Oil
Clove oil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for toothaches and mouth sores. It has antimicrobial and numbing properties that can help alleviate pain and promote healing.
Apply a small amount of clove oil to the sore using a cotton swab a few times a day.
9. Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E oil is known for its skin-healing properties. Pierce a vitamin E capsule and apply the oil directly to the sore. It can help reduce pain, inflammation, and promote faster healing.
10. Yogurt
Yogurt contains live cultures of beneficial bacteria that can help promote oral health and boost the healing process of mouth sores.
Make sure to choose plain yogurt without added sugars and consume a few tablespoons of yogurt daily until the sore heals.