I. Introduction
Canker sores are a type of painful ulcers that occur on the inside of the mouth, on the cheeks, lips or tongue. They can be small or large, and can often make eating, speaking or drinking difficult. While they are not contagious, they can be impeding and cause discomfort to the sufferer.
Keeping good oral hygiene and adopting preventive measures can go a long way in reducing the frequency and severity of canker sores. However, when they do occur, it can be helpful to have natural remedies and other treatment options on hand.
With that in mind, this article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to cure canker sores naturally and effectively.
II. 10 Natural Remedies to Cure Canker Sores at Home
When it comes to natural remedies for canker sores, there are a variety of options to choose from. Here are ten remedies that have been tested and tried:
A. Saltwater Rinse
One of the simplest yet effective remedies for canker sores is to rinse the mouth with a saltwater solution. Salt is a natural disinfectant and can help to reduce inflammation and pain. To make the solution, mix 1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish it around the mouth for 30 seconds to a minute. Repeat the process 2-3 times a day until the sore heals.
B. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and healing properties. To apply, cut a leaf from an aloe vera plant and extract the gel. Apply the gel directly to the sore and leave it on for several minutes before rinsing the mouth. Repeat the process up to three times a day until the sore heals.
C. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a great option for curing canker sores due to its high lauric acid content which has antimicrobial properties that can prevent infections. Apply a small amount of coconut oil directly to the sore several times a day until it heals.
D. Honey
Honey is a natural antimicrobial agent that can be effective in curing a canker sore. Apply a small amount of honey directly on the sore, let it sit for several minutes, then rinse the mouth with warm water. Repeat the process up to three times a day.
E. Tea Bags
Tea bags, particularly black tea, contain tannins that have antiviral and antifungal properties that can reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and heal the sore. Dip a tea bag in warm water and hold it against the sore for 15-20 minutes. Repeat the process 2-3 times a day.
F. Baking Soda
Baking soda is an alkaline substance that can help to neutralize the acidity in the mouth, reducing inflammation and pain. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a small amount of water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the sore and leave it on for several minutes. Repeat the process twice a day.
G. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant that can kill the bacteria in the mouth that can cause canker sores. Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water and swish it around for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Repeat the process once a day. However, be careful not to swallow the solution as it can be harmful if ingested.
H. Milk of Magnesia
Milk of magnesia is an antacid that can help to neutralize the acid in the mouth, thus reducing inflammation and pain. Dab a small amount of milk of magnesia on the sore up to three times a day.
I. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth. Brew a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool. Rinse the mouth with the cooled tea several times a day until the sore heals.
J. Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 can help to improve the overall health of the mouth and boost the immune system, which in turn can help to prevent and heal canker sores. Take a vitamin B12 supplement or eat foods rich in vitamin B12, such as salmon, eggs, and dairy products.
III. The Dos and Don’ts of Curing Canker Sores
While natural remedies can be effective in curing canker sores, there are certain dos and don’ts that should be kept in mind.
A. Dos:
- Keep the mouth clean: rinse the mouth regularly with warm salt water.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: brush and floss teeth regularly and gently, using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Get enough rest: inadequate rest and fatigue can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.
- Manage stress: stress can cause a variety of health problems, including canker sores. Try relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to cope with stress.
B. Don’ts:
- Avoid spicy, acidic, and crunchy foods that can irritate the sore.
- Do not smoke or use any tobacco products, which can irritate the sore and delay the healing process.
- Avoid using toothpaste that contains sodium lauryl sulfate as it can cause irritation and sensitivity in the mouth.
IV. How to Prevent Canker Sores and Treat Them When They Do Occur
Preventive measures can go a long way in reducing the severity and frequency of canker sores. Here are some preventive measures:
A. Preventive measures:
- Avoid trigger foods such as spicy, acidic and crunchy foods or food that may trigger an allergic reaction.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid injuring the delicate tissues in the mouth.
- Gargle with saltwater to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to maintain oral hygiene.
When canker sores do occur, there are a variety of treatment options available:
B. Treatment options
- Over-the-counter medications: There are several over-the-counter medications such as antimicrobial mouth rinses, numbing gels or creams, and pain relievers that can alleviate symptoms and accelerate the healing process.
- Prescription medications: In severe cases of canker sores, prescription medications such as corticosteroids or antibiotic mouthwashes may be prescribed by a doctor.
- Laser therapy: Laser therapy is a technique that uses a low-level laser to promote healing and reduce pain and inflammation.
V. The Power of Probiotics in Curing Canker Sores
A. Definition of Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They can be found in supplements or in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi.
B. How Probiotics can Help to Cure Canker Sores
Probiotics can help to balance the natural bacteria in the mouth and gut, which in turn can help to prevent and heal canker sores. They can also boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
C. Sources of Probiotics
There are several sources of probiotics, including supplements and natural sources such as fermented foods. When choosing a supplement, look for one that contains Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, which are known for their digestive and immune-enhancing benefits.
VI. Herbal Remedies for Canker Sores: Tried-and-Tested Solutions
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to alleviate a variety of health problems, including canker sores. Here are some herbs that can be effective in curing canker sores:
A. Echinacea
Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting properties. Drinking echinacea tea or taking echinacea supplements can help to prevent and heal canker sores.
B. Licorice Root
Licorice root has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making it useful in reducing pain and inflammation associated with canker sores. A small amount of licorice root can be boiled in water to make tea, or it can be taken as a supplement.
C. Myrrh
Myrrh is a resin extracted from a tree and has been known to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation, pain, and promote healing. Myrrh can be used to rinse the mouth or taken as a supplement.
D. Sage
Sage is a natural astringent and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to alleviate pain and promote healing. Sage tea can be drunk or used to rinse the mouth.
VII. What Foods to Avoid When You Have a Canker Sore
When you have a canker sore, certain foods can irritate the sore and make the discomfort worse. Here are some foods to avoid:
A. Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can cause irritation and discomfort to the sore, delaying healing. It’s best to avoid spicy foods until the sore has healed completely.
B. Acidic Foods
Acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes can increase the acidity in the mouth, irritation the sore, and causing more pain. Avoid these foods when you have a canker sore.
C. Crunchy Foods
Crunchy or hard foods such as nuts, chips, and crackers can scrape the sore and cause more pain. Avoid these foods until the sore has healed.
VIII. Curing Canker Sores with Common Household Items: A Comprehensive Guide
There are several common household items that can be used to alleviate the symptoms of canker sores:
A. Ice Cubes
Hold an ice cube against the sore to reduce inflammation and numb the pain.
B. Baking Soda
Baking soda can be used to create a paste and applied directly to the sore to reduce inflammation and pain.
C. Milk of Magnesia
Apply milk of magnesia directly on the sore to neutralize the acid and reduce pain and inflammation.
D. Tea Bags
Use a warm, damp tea bag and hold it against the sore to reduce inflammation and pain.
E. Saltwater Rinse
Swish a mixture of warm water and salt around the mouth to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
F. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water to disinfect the sore and prevent infection.
IX. Conclusion
Canker sores can be an uncomfortable condition to deal with, but there are several natural remedies and preventive measures that can help to alleviate the symptoms and even prevent canker sores from occurring in the first place. By incorporating these remedies and avoiding certain foods, you can reduce the severity and frequency of canker sores and enjoy better oral health. Remember to consult your healthcare provider if the condition persists or worsens.
