Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) occur inside your mouth or on your gums. Although they can be painful and make it difficult to talk or eat, they usually don’t cause lasting damage. Most canker sores heal on their own within a couple of weeks.
Several home remedies can help speed up the healing process, but they’re no magic bullet. It’s unlikely any remedy will cure a canker sore overnight. Many home remedies for canker sores aren’t well-studied, so use with caution. You can also call your doctor’s office if you have questions.
Here are 16 home remedies to consider.
Alum powder is made from potassium aluminum sulfate. It’s often used to preserve food and to pickle vegetables. Alum has astringent properties that may help shrink tissues and dry out canker sores.
To use:
- Create a paste by mixing a tiny amount of alum powder with a drop of water.
- Dab the paste onto a canker sore.
- Leave on for at least 1 minute.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly.
- Repeat daily until your canker sore is gone.
