How To Get Rid Of Mouth Ulcers – 15 Natural Remedies To Try

The solution to those troublesome ulcers may be simpler than you think.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Meredith Gantos, MD
Written by Kushneet Kukreja, MS (Biotechnology)
Edited by Arshiya Syeda, BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma
Fact-checked by Dipti Sharma, MA (English)  • 

Mouth ulcers are excruciatingly painful and can cause discomfort while trying to eat and speak. To understand how to get rid of mouth ulcers naturally, you need to know what’s causing them. For instance, you can take multivitamin supplements to resolve the mouth ulcers that develop because of nutritional deficiencies. Stress can also contribute to recurring mouth ulcers, as you may have noticed if you are prone to them. Regardless of the source, an ulcer in the mouth can be very bothersome. Besides meeting your daily nutritional requirements and following stress management techniques, there are several home remedies that you can apply to heal them quickly. Continue reading if you are looking for straightforward and uncomplicated home treatments to resolve mouth ulcers. Scroll down!

What Are Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers are small, white, or yellowish open lesions that appear on the inner cheeks, gums, and lips. They are also known as canker sores and can be quite irritating and painful. While they are mostly harmless, they can make eating, drinking, and talking quite difficult.

Mouth ulcers are non-contagious and develop due to several factors like anemia, cytotoxic drugs, radiotherapy, etc (1). These mouth ulcers clear up within 2 weeks for most people.

Mouth ulcers are usually not a cause of concern and can be managed at home with natural remedies. Scroll down to learn how to get rid of them effectively.

How To Get Rid Of Mouth Ulcers

If you are wondering about how to get rid of mouth ulcers fast, the following natural solution might help. Most home remedies for ulcers use ingredients commonly found in the kitchen. Here are the top 15 home remedies that can provide fast relief if you are suffering from a painful mouth ulcer.

Cure That Annoying Ulcer With These Solutions

  1. Honey
  2. Baking Soda
  3. Coconut Oil
  4. Apple Cider Vinegar
  5. Alum
  6. Salt Water
  7. Toothpaste
  8. Orange Juice
  9. Clove Oil
  10. Cayenne
  11. Coconut Milk
  12. Turmeric
  13. Garlic
  14. Epsom Salt
  15. Cabbage Juice

1. Honey For Ulcers

Honey for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need

Honey

What You Have To Do

Apply some honey on the ulcer and let it stay.

How Often You Should Do This

Keep reapplying every few hours.

Why This Works

Honey is antimicrobial in nature and also possesses wound healing properties. It will quicken the natural healing process of the mouth ulcer and keep it infection free. It also reduces the irritation and swelling (2),(3).


protip_icon Quick Tip
Preferably use unpasteurized and unfiltered honey, such as Manuka honey, as it is much less processed, and hence, may retain most of its healing properties.

2. Baking Soda For Ulcers

Baking soda for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need
What You Have To Do
  1. Mix the water and baking soda to form a paste.
  2. Apply this on the mouth ulcers using your fingers. Let it dry for a few minutes.
  3. Rinse your mouth with water and gargle.
How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this thrice during the day.

Why This Works

Usually, baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is used around the house to clean and deodorize. It also is an excellent home remedy for mouth ulcers. It eases the pain and speeds up the healing process by neutralizing the ulcer acids (4). Its antibacterial action will help you maintain oral hygiene (5).

protip_icon Quick Tip
You can also rinse your mouth with a mixture of baking soda and water. To do this, stir in one teaspoon of baking soda into half cup of water and swirl the mixture in your mouth for 15-20 seconds.

3. Coconut Oil For Mouth Ulcers

Coconut oil for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need

Virgin coconut oil

What You Have To Do

Dab a little bit of this oil on the mouth ulcer and leave it on.

How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this a few times during the day. You can also apply the oil on the ulcer before going to bed.

Why This Works

Coconut oil topical treatments reduce ulcers naturally due its extensive antimicrobial components – the medium chain fatty acids (6). It is also an anti-inflammatory compound and an analgesici  XPain relieving property of a substance or a medicated drug to soothe various levels of pain (from headaches to injuries). (7). These properties will reduce the inflammation, soreness, and pain you experience because of mouth ulcer.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar For Mouth Ulcers

Apple cider vinegar for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup warm water
What You Have To Do
  1. Mix the ACV in the water and swish this solution around in your mouth for about a minute or two.
  2. Rinse your mouth with plain water.
How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this every morning and evening until the mouth ulcer heals.

Why This Works

It is known as one of the best home remedies for mouth ulcers. This is due to the acidity of apple cider vinegar that may kill the bacteria causing the mouth ulcers and heal them (8).

5. Alum For Mouth Ulcers

Alum for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need
  • Alum crystals
  • Cotton swab
  • Water
What You Have To Do
  1. Crush the alum crystals to get a fine powder.
  2. Wet the cotton swab, dip it in the powder, and place it on the mouth ulcer.
  3. Hold it there for a minute or two. Rinse your mouth thoroughly after removing the cotton swab.
How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this twice a day.

Why This Works

Alum has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties against microorganisms that cause issues in different parts of the digestive system (9).

Caution

The alum may sting a little, so be prepared.

6. Salt Water For Ulcers

Salt water for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • A glass of lukewarm water
What You Have To Do
  1. Mix the salt in the water and gargle thoroughly with it.
  2. Rinse your mouth with plain water to remove the extra saltiness.
How Often You Should Do This

Do the salt water gargle a few times during the day.

Why This Works

Alum is an effective natural mouth ulcer treatment. It has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties against microorganisms that cause issues in different parts of the digestive system (10).

A blogger shares his experience of using salt for ulcers: “Regardless, I personally [have] had ulcers in my mouth since [I was] young and spamming salt on the region of open raw flesh can send tears trickling down my cheeks. [Even so,] salt is a natural remedy I use every single time and, without fail, my ulcers recover in a couple of days (i).”

7. Toothpaste For Mouth Ulcers

Toothpaste for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need
  • Toothpaste
  • Q-tip
What You Have To Do
  1. Apply the paste on your ulcer using a Q-tip.
  2. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth.
How Often You Should Do This

Do this every day until the whiteness of the ulcer disappears.

Why This Works

One of the key properties of a good toothpaste is its antimicrobial capacity (11). Applying this on the mouth ulcer will clear out the infection that is causing the ulcer.

Caution

This mouth ulcers home remedy will sting, so apply some aloe vera gel afterwards.

8. Orange Juice For Ulcers

Orange juice for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need

Fresh orange juice (or fortified)

What You Have To Do

Drink two glasses of orange juice in a day.

How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this every day until the mouth ulcer heals.

Why This Works

The key to this remedy is getting a lot of vitamin C into your body. It has been seen that vitamin C deficiency can result in mouth ulcers. Also, vitamin C boosts your immune system support and helps your body fight all kinds of infections, including mouth ulcers (12).

9. Clove Oil For Ulcers

Clove oil for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need
  • Clove oil
  • Cotton swab
What You Have To Do
  1. Dip the cotton swab in the clove oil and apply directly on the mouth ulcer. Leave it on for it to be absorbed by the skin, which will eventually heal the ulcer.
  2. It is advisable to rinse your mouth with warm water before applying the clove oil as it will clean the area of the ulcer.
How Often You Should Do This

Apply clove oil twice or thrice a day.

Why This Works

Clove oil and its eugenoli  XNatural aromatic chemical compound found in the essential oil extracted from clove used to relieve pain and gastrointestinal functions. content are extensively used for dealing with oral problems, such as blisters and canker sores or aphthous ulcers, quickly and effectively. Its antimicrobial action and healing properties work wonders when it comes to mouth ulcers (13).

10. Cayenne For Ulcers

Cayenne for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need
  • Cayenne powder
  • Q-tip
What You Have To Do
  1. Using your fingers or a Q-tip, apply a thin layer of cayenne powder on the mouth ulcer.
  2. Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with plain water.
How Often You Should Do This

You can apply this twice a day.

Why This Works

Cayenne pepper is becoming famous as a remedy for pain management. It contains capsaicin, which gives it its hotness. This will numb the pain and also kill any microbes present at the site of the mouth ulcer (14), (15).

Caution

Cayenne pepper is bound to sting, so be careful when you apply it.

11. Coconut Milk For Ulcers

Coconut milk for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need

Coconut milk

What You Have To Do

Gargle with coconut milk for a few minutes and then rinse your mouth with clean water.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this three to four times during the day.

Why This Works

Fresh coconut milk is a wonderful home remedy for mouth ulcers. It has a soothing effect and can help in lessening the pain (16). The pain will subside quickly, allowing you to eat normally.

12. Turmeric For Mouth Ulcers

Turmeric for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need
  • 2 tablespoons turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon water
What You Have To Do
  1. Make turmeric paste by mixing the water and turmeric.
  2. Apply this on the mouth ulcer and leave it on for two to three minutes before rinsing it off.
How Often You Should Do This

Apply this every day in the morning and evening until the mouth ulcer heals.

Why This Works

Turmeric is a well-known antiseptic that is used both topically and internally to treat infections. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can give you quick relief from the mouth ulcer (17).

13. Garlic For Mouth Ulcers

Garlic for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need

1 garlic clove

What You Have To Do
  1. Cut the garlic clove in half and rub it gently on the mouth ulcer for a minute or two.
  2. Rinse your mouth with clean water after 30 to 40 minutes.
How Often You Should Do This

Repeat this twice or thrice a day.

Why This Works

Like turmeric, garlic is also extensively used to treat infections because of its strong antimicrobial activity against a wide range of microorganisms. The allicini  XYellow oily liquid in garlic that gives its characteristic odor and helps lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels and prevent cancer. found in garlic is said to be the main component that is responsible for this property (18).

14. Epsom Salt For Mouth Ulcers

Epsom salt for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need
  • 2 tablespoons Epsom salt
  • A cup of lukewarm water
What You Have To Do
  1. Add the salt to the water and mix thoroughly so that all the salt has dissolved.
  2. Gargle with this water for a minute or so and then rinse your mouth with regular water.
How Often You Should Do This

It is recommended that you do the Epsom salt gargle twice or thrice a day.

Why This Works

Epsom salt contains minerals that have antibacterial action when applied on the mouth ulcer (19).

15. Cabbage Juice For Ulcers

Cabbage for mouth ulcers
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You Will Need
  • 1 raw cabbage
  • Water
What You Have To Do
  1. Boil the cabbage until the water quantity reduces to half.
  2. Sip on a glass of this juice for relief from the mouth ulcer pain.
How Often You Should Do This

Drink three to four glasses in a day.

Why This Works

Cabbage juice possesses anti-inflammatory compounds and speeds up the healing process of the mouth ulcers (20).

Now that you know how to get rid of mouth ulcers, it’s time you try these remedies. The mouth ulcer remedies listed above are versatile and work for most types of mouth ulcers. Using them diligently will heal the ulcer in no time.

Knowing the types of mouth ulcers will help you deal with them better. Listed below are the types:

Types Of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers are a common occurrence in people of all ages. They are usually divided into the following types:

  • Minor Ulcers – These are small ulcers ranging from 2-8mm in diameter. These ulcers take about 10 to 14 days to clear up, which is shorter when compared to the other types.
  • Major Ulcers – These ulcers are bigger than the minor ones, and they are also set deeper into the skin. They usually have a raised and/or irregular border. It can take several weeks for these ulcers to clear up. They are also known to leave scars behind once they are healed.
  • Herpetiform (Herpes) Ulcers – When the ulcers are formed because of the Herpes virus, they are known as Herpetiform ulcers. They look like small pinheads and usually in clusters.

About one in ten persons, according to some experts, are affected by canker sores. According to a study, 85% of individuals with canker sores have the minor variety, which is by far the most prevalent. Only 10% of people have severe canker sores, and only 5% have herpetiform canker sores (21).

Listed below are a few frequently asked questions regarding mouth ulcers.

Infographic: Quick Home Remedies For Ulcers

While medical treatment for any problems in your body is always your go-to, natural ingredients are packed with many beneficial compounds that can help our body tackle many issues, including mouth ulcers. You may reduce ulcer pain and fasten its healing process with the help of a few foods taken right from your pantry.

Check out the infographic below to learn more about the nourishing ingredients that can soothe your ulcers and how you can use them.

quick home remedies for ulcers (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

A mouth ulcer may appear as an open sore on the lip or in the mouth. Nutritional deficiencies and stress are the two most common causes of mouth ulcers. Reducing stress and meeting daily micronutrient requirements through supplements or diet are essential for combating mouth ulcers. You can also apply a few home remedies to help the recovery process. Honey, coconut milk and coconut oil, turmeric, orange juice, clove oil, and baking soda are a few of the most widely used home remedies that can help get rid of mouth ulcers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can aloe vera treat mouth ulcers?

Dr. Michael Kosdon, a cosmetic dentist, says, “Aloe vera is a great natural option for soothing mouth ulcers by speeding up healing and reducing inflammation. Rinsing with aloe vera juice is helpful for ulcers inside the mouth, and applying a topical gel or aloe lip balm can help with ulcers outside the mouth on the lips.”

Can curd treat mouth ulcers?

Dr. Kosdon says, “Curd is loaded with probiotic bacteria that can help soothe mouth ulcers by fighting off the bacteria that cause them. It also helps reduce inflammation and is very soothing for a mouth ulcer.”

What causes bleeding ulcers?

When the ulcer is caused due to an infection and the infection has progressed, it can also cause bleeding from the ulcer and the gums.

Why are mouth ulcers so painful?

Your mouth is densely innervated. Thus, the presence of an ulcer sensitizes these nerves and causes pain. You also use your mouth a lot to speak, eat, or perform unconscious actions like gulping, thus constantly using or moving your muscles and irritating the ulcer.

Can ulcers spread by kissing?

Generally, no. However, if the ulcer was caused due to a viral or bacterial infection, it may be contagious.

Does mouthwash help ulcers?

Yes. Look for an antibacterial mouthwash that can prevent any infection during this susceptible period.

Does lack of sleep cause mouth ulcers?

Possibly. While there is a lack of evidence suggesting a link between the two, a disturbed sleep schedule may add to your stress and hectic lifestyle. This may increase the risk of mouth ulcers.

How do you tell if an ulcer is healing?

The ulcer shows signs of healing when the pain subsides and new cells start to grow around it.

Hope this article helped you. Do let us know if we missed out on anything in the comments section below.

Key Takeaways

  • Mouth ulcers can cause distress and hinder food intake.
  • An infection or injury, hormonal imbalance, deficiency in some nutrients, etc., are some common causes of this condition.
  • You can soothe mouth ulcers by applying natural ingredients like honey, clove oil, or coconut oil. These have loads of beneficial
  • compounds that can help control the infection and speed up the healing process.
How To Get Rid Of Mouth Ulcers

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Mouth ulcers can be painful and uncomfortable. A certified physician explains how to recognize and treat them in this video so you can get rid of canker sores quickly and easily. Check it out!

Personal Experience: Source

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Mouth ulcers and other causes of orofacial soreness and pain
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1118165/
  2. Medicinal and cosmetic uses of Bee’s Honey – A review
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3611628/
  3. Honey: its medicinal property and antibacterial activity
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3609166/
  4. The effect of sodium bicarbonate oral rinse on salivary pH and oral microflora: A prospective cohort study
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5773983/
  5. Antibacterial activity of baking soda
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12017929/
  6. Improvement of Medium Chain Fatty Acid Content and Antimicrobial Activity of Coconut Oil via Solid-State Fermentation Using a Malaysian Geotrichum candidum
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3732585/#B2
  7. Anti-inflammatory analgesic and antipyretic activities of virgin coconut oil
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3732585/#B2
  8. Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1785201/
  9. In vitro antimicrobial activity of potash alum
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8783521/
  10. Antimicrobial properties of salt (NaCl) used for the preservation of natural casings
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16943065/
  11. The antibacterial effect of toothpastes on the salivary flora
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16943065/
  12. Vitamin C and human wound healing
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7038579/
  13. Clove (Syzygium aromaticum): a precious spice
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3819475/
  14. Topical capsaicin for pain management: therapeutic potential and mechanisms of action of the new high-concentration capsaicin 8% patch
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3169333/
  15. Antimicrobial and Anti-Virulence Activity of Capsaicin Against Erythromycin-Resistant Cell-Invasive Group A Streptococci
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4643145/
  16. Cocos nucifera (L.) (Arecaceae): A phytochemical and pharmacological review
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4671521/
  17. Turmeric the Golden Spice
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92752/
  18. Garlic: a review of potential therapeutic effects
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103721/
  19. The Effects of Epsom Salt on Microorganisms Isolated From Sewage
    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/284179668_The_Effects_of_Epsom_Salt_on_Microorganisms_Isolated_From_Sewage_Isitua_Chinwe_Christy1_Ibeh_Isaiah_Nnanna2_and_Ajuzie_Christopher_Uche3
  20. Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) Phytochemicals with Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Potential
    https://journal.waocp.org/article_28350_52583657b77af22c1a222d7c5934562a.pdf
  21. Canker sores (mouth ulcers): Overview
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546250/
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