Relieve Canker Sores Using These 6 Natural Remedies

Although canker sores usually heal on their own in a few days, you can take advantage of the anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and healing properties of some natural ingredients to prevent infections and accelerate the process.

Canker sores are small, whitish ulcers that form on the inside of the cheeks, roof of the mouth, or tongue. These are surrounded by a reddened area that sometimes gives them an appearance similar to a cold sore. If you have discomfort, relieve canker sores with natural options like the ones below.

Keep in mind that canker sores are not contagious and are usually easily cured. Its appearance indicates the attack of viruses and bacteria in the mouth, although they can also occur due to injuries, lack of hygiene and excessive consumption of tobacco.

The truth is that they disappear by themselves after several days and very rarely cause severe pain or complications. However, if you have a lot of discomfort, you may want to resort to some home remedies.

Relieves canker sores naturally

Next, we want to share with you some of the best options to alleviate the discomfort caused by canker sores. Of course, keep in mind that home remedies can cause allergic reactions; when in doubt, consult your doctor.

1. Tea tree oil

Tea tree essential oil is a natural product with antibacterial, analgesic and healing properties that would contribute to the relief of canker sores. Its application would protect the affected area, thus avoiding the attack of infectious microorganisms.

Ingredients

• 3 drops of tea tree oil.
• 1 teaspoon of water (5 g).

Preparation

• Dilute the tea tree oil in a teaspoon of water.

Application mode

• Dip a cotton ball or Q-tip into the liquid and apply it to the affected area.
• Repeat its use 2 or 3 times a day for best results.

2. Rinse with pomegranate rind

According to popular beliefs, the healing and antibacterial effect of pomegranate bark would protect irritated skin and alleviate the discomfort caused by canker sores.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of dried pomegranate rind (5 g).
• 1 cup of water (250 ml).

Preparation

• Add the pomegranate rind to a cup of water and boil over low heat for 10 minutes.
• Let it sit at room temperature and strain it.

Application mode

• Take several sips of the tea and gargle for 2 minutes.
• Repeat the treatment 2 times a day.

3. Relieve canker sores with aloe vera gel

It is no secret to anyone that aloe vera gel is one of the components most used to heal wounds and ulcers on the skin. Its antibacterial action would protect against infections and its moisturizing and regenerating power would act as a balm.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel (15 g).

• 3 drops of tea tree oil (optional).

Preparation

• Extract a tablespoon of aloe vera gel and, if you like, combine it with 3 drops of tea tree oil.
• Rub the gel on the canker sores and leave it to act without rinsing.
• Repeat its use every day until the wound heals.

4. Rinse with birch leaves

An investigation by Microbiology Open has indicated that birch is a plant with antiseptic and healing properties that, externally, could accelerate the skin’s regeneration process.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of dried birch leaves (10 g).
• ½ cup of water (125 ml).

Preparation

• Add the birch leaves to a pot of water and boil over low heat for 10 minutes.
• After this time, strain the liquid and use it as a rinse.
• Gargle with the birch water 2-3 times a day.

5. Rinse with horsetail

Horsetail has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce irritation and pain caused by canker sores. Its infusion would calm the sensation of inflammation in the skin and, in turn, promote healing.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of horsetail (10 g).
• 1 cup of water (250 ml).

Preparation

• Add the horsetail to a cup of water and boil it for 5 minutes.
• When it’s done, cover it and let it rest for 20 minutes.
• Filter the liquid and use it as a rinse.
• Gargle with horsetail tea after each brushing.

6. Relieve canker sores with baking soda

According to beliefs, sodium bicarbonate is an ingredient that would help neutralize the pH of the mouth and saliva to prevent infections. Although its antiseptic effect has not been corroborated by scientific studies, the results indicate that sodium bicarbonate has an interesting antibacterial effect, as can be read in the research Antibacterial activity of baking soda .

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of baking soda (5 g).
• ½ cup of water (125 ml).

Preparation

• Dilute the baking soda in half a cup of warm water.

Application mode

• Swish the liquid for 2 to 3 minutes.
• Use it every day until the ulcer heals.

Is it possible to relieve canker sores naturally?

The home remedies cited in this article can help ease the bothersome symptoms of canker sores. However, keep in mind that these heal on their own, without the need for intervention.

Finally, remember that even natural remedies can cause allergic reactions. For this reason, medical consultation is recommended before applying any of these recipes.