Mouth ulcers—also known as canker sores—can be incredibly uncomfortable. These small, painful lesions can pop up on the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, or gums and can make talking, eating, or even smiling a challenge. They often result from stress, injury (like biting your cheek), vitamin deficiencies, or sensitivity to certain foods like citrus or spicy dishes. While they usually heal on their own within a week or two, the discomfort can be hard to ignore. That’s why many people turn to natural home remedies to speed up healing and reduce pain without harsh chemicals or expensive treatments.
There are some remedies to help you with Mouth Ulcers at home:
1. Coconut Oil
How to Use: Dab a small amount of virgin coconut oil directly onto the ulcer using a clean cotton swab. Reapply 2–3 times a day, especially after meals.
Benefits: Coconut oil has powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing properties. It can help reduce swelling and fight off infection while forming a protective layer over the sore.
2. Honey
How to Use: Apply a drop of raw honey directly onto the sore. You can also mix it with a pinch of turmeric for an added anti-inflammatory boost. Reapply 2–4 times daily.
Benefits: Honey not only soothes the pain but also promotes faster healing thanks to its natural antibacterial and tissue-regenerating qualities.
3. Salt Water Rinse
How to Use: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit out. Do this 2–3 times a day.
Benefits: Salt helps disinfect the sore and reduce inflammation. It may sting a little but works well to keep the ulcer clean and promote healing.
4. Aloe Vera Gel
How to Use: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the ulcer. Let it sit without rinsing. Repeat a few times daily.
Benefits: Aloe vera is known for its cooling, soothing, and healing properties. It can speed up cell regeneration and reduce pain almost immediately.
5. Baking Soda Paste
How to Use: Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a little water to make a paste. Apply to the sore and leave it for a few minutes before rinsing off. Use once or twice daily.
Benefits: Baking soda neutralizes acids in the mouth and reduces inflammation. It also helps dry out the sore, which may speed healing.
Wellness Tips to Support Healing
- Stay hydrated: Dry mouth can worsen ulcers. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Avoid irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or salty foods while healing.
- Eat soft, bland foods: Yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothies can be easier to eat and less irritating.
- Practice stress management: Stress is a known trigger—try meditation, deep breathing, or relaxing hobbies.
- Maintain oral hygiene: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinse gently.
When to See a Doctor
- If the ulcer lasts longer than 2 weeks
- If it’s unusually large or keeps coming back
- If you have multiple ulcers at once
- If it’s accompanied by fever, rash, or difficulty swallowing
- If there are signs of infection like pus, swelling, or increasing pain