Canker sores are ulcers that develop on the oral mucosa: underneath the tongue, on the gums or the cheeks, and even in the throat. They are easy to spot because of their whitish patch, often surrounded by a red, inflamed area.
If you get them often while those close to you are rarely affected, know that some people have a genetic predisposition. But that’s not the only cause of their occurrence.
Oral injuries or trauma, such as accidental bites, food or drug allergies, nutritional deficiencies, or even significant stress, can trigger them.
Generally, they go away on their own after a few days, or even weeks for the larger ones. How can you cope with their presence? And which remedy should you use? If there is no \”miracle cure\”, these 8 natural solutions have shown their benefits.
1. Bay laurel essential oil
It’s hard to avoid essential oils when discussing natural remedies. Some of them are particularly effective against canker sores.
If the one with clove is often cited for its potentially pain-relieving and antiseptic effects, the high concentration of eugenol (its active compound) makes it delicate to use and can be harsh on the oral mucosa.
It’s preferable to turn to bay laurel essential oil which contains the same active ingredient at a lower concentration, making it easier to use.
This scientific article notably reviews the purported properties of this essential oil: antibacterial, antiviral, analgesic, antioxidant, anesthetic.
My advice: mix one or two drops of bay laurel essential oil with a carrier oil. Dip a cotton swab into it and apply it to the inflamed area. You can usually repeat the application up to 3 times a day.
2. The numbing effect of an ice cube
A good temporary solution to relieve pain
By applying it directly to the canker sore for a few minutes, it has an anesthetic effect that numbs the area.
A good temporary solution to relieve pain. You can repeat it several times a day because its effect doesn’t last long.
3. Baking soda
A well-known home remedy to soothe these lesions: baking soda. It has alkalizing properties, as shown by this study.
It rebalances the pH of your mouth, but it also has antimicrobial and soothing properties.
I recommend preparing a mouthwash by mixing one teaspoon of baking soda into a cup of warm water. Then rinse your mouth with the solution to ease the pain and promote healing.
4. Honey
Another delicious remedy: honey, well known for its antibacterial and healing properties.
I also found this meta-analysis compiling more than 70 scientific studies, which confirms the effectiveness of honey in treating canker sores.
It may reduce the size of minor canker sores. To make the most of it, apply directly a small amount of honey to the canker sore to calm inflammation. By forming a protective barrier, it also relieves pain.
📚 Also read | Naturally soothe your heartburn with honey
5. Coconut oil
Rich in lauric acid, coconut oil is not only an ally for hair and kitchen cabinets. Its composition is believed to give it antibacterial and soothing properties.
However, as this review suggests, there is insufficient scientific evidence to confirm the real value of coconut oil’s beneficial effects. I think new scientific studies should be conducted.
Gently apply a small amount of coconut oil to the canker sore to relieve pain and repeat several times a day.
6. Echinacea
This plant from the Asteraceae family is known to boost natural defenses. Anti-inflammatory, it could help reduce inflammation and speed up healing of canker sores.
While more studies are warranted, I found this study highlighting the plant’s positive effects against canker sores in about fifty people.
It would reduce the number of lesions, the intensity of pain, and decrease the recurrence of lesions in people who are frequently affected.
The best way to consume it? As an herbal tea, of course. But don’t gulp it down. Take the time to hold each sip for a few seconds so that your canker sore is in contact with the tea (not too hot).
7. Sage
An important plant in herbal medicine, sage contains active compounds such as tannins and flavonoids.
As shown by this study, these molecules would confer antiseptic, wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties on it, all three helpful for relieving canker sores and aiding their healing.
To use it, you can consume it as an infusion by boiling water with a few sage leaves. Then use this mixture as a mouthwash.
8. Myrrh (or balsam)
Used in Ayurvedic medicine, myrrh is a resin believed to be highly effective against oral lesions, such as canker sores.
Also known as balsamier, this plant can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain and promote healing. Its properties generally help maintain good oral hygiene.
A great point in my opinion is that its properties are recognized by ESCOP, the European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy.
For use, you can apply a few drops of myrrh tincture directly to the canker sore with a cotton swab.
My tips to speed up the healing of canker sores
In addition to topical remedies, I advise you to limit certain harmful actions or foods that can slow your healing. To avoid throwing all your efforts away, I recommend avoiding:
- too acidic substances: lemon is often considered a foolproof home remedy for canker sores because of its disinfectant properties. However, its use is controversial. Its low pH can cause a burning and stinging sensation, increasing pain, inflammation, and slowing healing.
- irritating foods: too hot or too spicy, they may further irritate your sore.
- alcohol (and alcohol-based mouthwashes): irritating, they prolong the burning sensation and slow healing.
- foods that are too hard and crunchy like chips, which can further damage your mucous membrane.
- the overly aggressive actions: brushing a canker sore with your toothbrush has never been a way to get rid of it.
