If you tend to get canker sores, natural remedies might be just what the doctor ordered. These treatments can help heal your ulcers quickly and securely.
Maintaining good health through diet and supplements can help protect you against canker sores and outbreaks. Vitamin B-12 in particular plays a key role in relieving symptoms and pain associated with canker sores.
Milk of Magnesia
Milk of magnesia, also known as magnesium hydroxide, is a commonly used medicine to treat mouth ulcers and canker sores. It can be purchased at most drug stores without a prescription.
As an antacid, milk of magnesia helps to neutralize the acids in your mouth that cause canker sores to sting and get worse. It may also help prevent irritated sores by making your mouth more alkaline.
Milk of magnesia can be taken as a laxative, drawing water into your intestines from surrounding tissue and softening stool for easier passage through your body. While this laxative may be effective for short-term constipation periods, it should never be taken continuously unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.
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Chamomile
Chamomile, a member of the daisy family (Asteraceae), can be used to treat many health problems. It’s an often-used herbal remedy for digestive issues, stomach pains and muscle spasms.
Chamomile tea has also been known to be a natural remedy for canker sores. Drinking several cups of chamomile tea daily can help soothe pain and speed up healing time for these sores.
Studies have demonstrated that chamomile can accelerate wound healing, particularly for ulcers and burns. It may also kill bacteria while decreasing inflammation.
Another study demonstrated that chamomile can help infants suffering from colic, an often painful condition of the gastrointestinal tract. Children given a combination of chamomile and apple pectin experienced relief sooner than those receiving just placebo treatments.
Chamomile can be consumed in a number of forms, such as teas, tinctures and capsules. Although generally safe to take, large doses may cause drowsiness or vomiting. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a doctor before using chamomile for any purpose.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar, when made from organic apples and unheated and unfiltered, contains beneficial enzymes, pectin and trace minerals. Plus it has a healthy balance of acetic acid which helps control bad bacteria while supporting your oral microbiome’s health.
Canker sores are usually mild irritations that go away on their own. However, if the sores persist after several weeks or worsen, see your dentist for a checkup. In some cases, canker sores could indicate something more serious like an intestinal disorder or cancer.
Apple cider vinegar is a widely-used natural remedy for canker sores. It works by eliminating bacteria that causes ulcers, but be aware that applying it directly onto the sore may sting. To minimize this risk, dilute with water before applying or dab it on the affected area.
Zinc Lozenges
If you’re searching for a natural remedy to canker sores, zinc lozenges are an excellent option. These lozenges help strengthen your immunity and combat off the bacteria responsible for these sores.
Studies have also demonstrated that taking zinc by mouth can reduce cold duration and severity. It is essential to find a product with the appropriate dose of zinc that does not contain ingredients which bind it, such as citric acid.
Dr. Hemila Hemila of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio advises that zinc lozenges should be taken within 24 hours after experiencing symptoms of a cold.
Another natural way to treat canker sores is by gargling with salt water. To do this, dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in half a cup of warm water and swish around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this every few hours until the canker sore has completely gone away.