10 Home Remedies To Treat Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, painful lesions that develop in the soft tissues of the mouth, including the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, or gums. They are not contagious and typically heal on their own within one to two weeks, although some cases may require medical attention.

Key Characteristics:

- Appearance: Round or oval sores with a white, yellow, or grayish center surrounded by a red border.

- Size: Can range from small (minor ulcers) to large and deeper sores (major ulcers).

- Pain: Can cause discomfort, especially while eating, drinking, or speaking.

Common Symptoms:

- Burning or tingling sensation before the ulcer appears.

- Swollen and inflamed surrounding tissue.

- Difficulty in eating or talking, especially with acidic or spicy foods.

Common Causes:

- Trauma: Biting the cheek, accidental injury from dental work, or irritation from braces or sharp teeth.

- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of iron, zinc, folic acid, or vitamin B12.

- Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger ulcers in some individuals.

- Food Sensitivities: Reaction to acidic or spicy foods.

- Hormonal Changes: Often linked to menstrual cycles or hormonal fluctuations.

- Underlying Conditions: Diseases like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or autoimmune disorders.

- Infections: Viral infections like herpes simplex can cause similar lesions.

- Allergic Reactions: Toothpaste or mouthwash containing sodium lauryl sulfate may trigger ulcers.

Types of Mouth Ulcers:

- Minor Ulcers: Small, shallow sores that heal within 1–2 weeks.

- Major Ulcers: Larger, deeper, and more painful sores that take longer to heal and may scar.

- Herpetiform Ulcers: Tiny, pinpoint ulcers that often occur in clusters.

Here are some effective home remedies to treat mouth ulcers:

# Honey

How to Use: Apply a small amount of honey directly to the ulcer. Repeat 3–4 times a day.

Benefit: Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that promote healing.

# Coconut Oil

How to Use: Dab coconut oil on the ulcer using a cotton swab. Reapply multiple times a day.

Benefit: Its antimicrobial properties soothe pain and reduce inflammation.

# Saltwater Rinse

How to Use: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth thoroughly. Repeat 2–3 times daily.

Benefit: Helps clean the area and reduces swelling.

# Aloe Vera

How to Use: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the ulcer. Repeat 2–3 times a day.

Benefit: Speeds up the healing process and provides relief.

# Baking Soda Paste

How to Use: Mix a little baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply it to the ulcer and leave for a few minutes before rinsing.

Benefit: Neutralizes acid and reduces irritation.

# Tulsi Leaves (Holy Basil)

How to Use: Chew 4–5 washed tulsi leaves and rinse with water afterward.

Benefit: Its antibacterial properties help heal ulcers and reduce recurrence.

# Clove Oil

How to Use: Dab a small amount of clove oil on the ulcer using a cotton swab.

Benefit: Acts as a natural analgesic and reduces pain.

# Licorice Root

How to Use: Soak licorice root in water for a few hours and use the solution as a mouth rinse.

Benefit: Forms a protective coating over the ulcer and promotes healing.

# Ghee (Clarified Butter)

How to Use: Apply a small amount of ghee to the ulcer and leave it on.

Benefit: Soothes the affected area and aids healing.

# Cold Compress

How to Use: Place an ice cube or a cold spoon on the ulcer to numb the area temporarily.

Benefit: Reduces pain and swelling.

Tips to Prevent Mouth Ulcers:

- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Avoid spicy, acidic, and salty foods.
- Stay hydrated.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques.

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