Treatment
Many alternative therapies for canker sores try to heal the existing sores and prevent their recurrence. Several herbal remedies may be helpful in the treatment of existing sores. These include:
calendula (Calendula officinalis)
chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
myrrh (Commiphora molmol)
peppermint (Mentha peperita)
slippery elm (Ulmus fulva)
The herbs can be made into a strong tea. Compresses soaked in the tea can be applied directly to the mouth, or the tea can be swished in the mouth for several minutes.
The deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) form of licorice root, Glycyrrhiza glabra, is soothing to the mucous membranes of the mouth and can shorten the healing time for canker sores. The powdered DGL should be mixed with warm water to make a thin paste that can be used twice daily. It should be swirled in the mouth for several minutes and then spit out.
B-complex vitamins, folic acid , and iron (taken separately or combined in a multivitamin) can help prevent recurrent outbreaks, since canker sores are often associated with deficiencies in these nutrients.
Canker sores often occur during stressful times. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, guided imagery , and acupressure may help prevent or lessen the severity of outbreaks.
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