12 Natural Remedies to Cure Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are a common ailment characterized by painful sores in the mouth. These small lesions can be a significant source of discomfort, making everyday activities like eating, drinking, and speaking challenging. If you're a health enthusiast, someone seeking natural remedies, or someone who suffers from frequent mouth ulcers, you've come to the right place.

1. Understanding Mouth Ulcers

Before diving into the remedies, it's crucial to have a deeper understanding of what mouth ulcers are. Unlike cold sores, mouth ulcers are not caused by the herpes virus and are not contagious. They are typically round or oval with a white or yellow center and a red border and can appear individually or clustered.

2. Types of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers can vary in size and severity:

• Minor ulcers are small and generally heal within two weeks without scarring.
• Major ulcers: Larger and deeper, may take several weeks to heal, and can leave a scar.
• Herpetiform ulcers: Exhibiting as clusters, these can be extremely painful and take longer to heal.

3. Symptoms and Signs

Symptoms include a painful sore or sores inside the mouth, tongue, or cheeks, along with discomfort when talking or eating. If you experience fever or swollen lymph nodes, consult your doctor; these could be signs of infection.

4. Natural Remedies for Mouth Ulcers

• Saltwater Rinse: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in half a cup of warm water and swish around your mouth for about 30 seconds. The saltwater helps disinfect the mouth ulcer and can reduce inflammation.
• Baking Soda Paste: Combine baking soda with a little water to form a paste and apply it directly to the ulcer. Baking soda neutralizes acids and reduces pain and inflammation.
• Honey Rub: With its antibacterial properties, honey can be rubbed on the ulcer to help speed healing and prevent infection.
• Coconut Oil: Apply coconut oil to the ulcer. Coconut oil's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can relieve pain and reduce irritation.
• Chamomile Tea: Chamomile's soothing properties can help reduce the pain of ulcers. Use a chamomile tea bag on the ulcer, or rinse with cooled chamomile tea.
• Clove Oil: Known for its pain-relieving properties, especially in dentistry, apply clove oil with a cotton swab on the affected area after diluting it with a carrier oil.
• Aloe Vera: Rinse with aloe vera juice or apply the gel directly. Aloe has anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
• Turmeric Paste: Mix turmeric with water and apply the paste to the ulcer. Turmeric is a natural antiseptic that can promote healing.
• Coriander Seeds: Boil coriander seeds in water, strain the liquid, and use it to rinse your mouth. It can reduce inflammation and pain.
• Licorice Root: Chew on a piece of licorice root or soak it in water and use it as a rinse. The soothing properties may help in healing the ulcer.
• Garlic: Rub a sliced garlic clove on the ulcer for a few minutes. The allicin in garlic has natural antimicrobial properties.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Dilute with water and use it as a mouth rinse. The acetic acid in ACV can kill bacteria and help heal the ulcer quicker.

5. Preventive Measures

To prevent mouth ulcers, maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine, avoid foods that irritate your mouth, and try to reduce stress. Additionally, ensure you get enough vitamins and minerals, particularly B12, iron, and folic acid.

6. When to Seek Medical Attention

If mouth ulcers persist for longer than three weeks, become more painful or frequent, or if they appear after starting a new medication, see a healthcare provider.

7. Conclusion

Find relief from mouth ulcers with our natural remedies and expert guidance. Schedule a consultation with our healthcare professionals today to address persistent or severe cases. Call us today 040 67 19 19 19 or visit our Citizens Specialty Hospital website to book your appointment online. Your cognitive health is our priority, and we're here to help you every step of the way.

Author Bio

Dr A Praveen

Medical Oncology

medical oncologists in American Oncology Institute in Gurugram