Relieve It With A Herb: Aloe Vera For Canker Sores
Part of this article was originally published on www.zliving.com on October 26, 2018
Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) is a popular medicinal plant that’s been used for thousands of years. It is a thick, short-stemmed plant that stores water in its leaves. Best known for treating skin injuries such as sores or burns, it has several other therapeutic properties.
Each aloe vera leaf is full of a slimy tissue that stores water. This slimy, water-filled tissue is the ‘gel’ we relate to in aloe vera products. Aloe vera gel contains powerful antioxidants known as polyphenols. Polyphenols in aloe vera can inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria that cause infections in humans.[1]
Aloe vera could also accelerate the healing of burns. A review of four studies suggests that aloe vera could reduce the time taken to heal burns by around nine days when compared with conventional medicine.[2]
What is a canker sore?
Canker sores, medically known as aphthous ulcers, are small but painful lesions that develop inside the mouth. These mouth ulcers can make everyday activities like eating, drinking, and speaking uncomfortable. Unlike cold sores, which are caused by a virus and appear outside the mouth, canker sores are not contagious and are not linked to any infection. Most canker sores heal on their own within a week or two, but the pain they cause often leads people to seek immediate pain relief. Fortunately, there are several natural remedies available that can help soothe the discomfort and speed up the healing process of these painful lesions. For most canker sores sufferers, finding effective ways to relieve pain and promote healing is a top priority.
Why use aloe vera to treat canker sores?
Most people have experienced mouth ulcers, or canker sores, at some point in their lives. Canker sores usually form underneath the lip inside the mouth and last for seven to 10 days.
Studies show that aloe vera can accelerate the healing of mouth ulcers. Aloe vera is effective in reducing inflammation and has soothing properties that can help heal canker sores.
A study done on 180 people with recurrent mouth ulcers for a period of seven days showed that when an aloe vera patch was applied to the area, it was effective in reducing the size of the ulcers. [3] Another study found that aloe vera gel not only accelerated the healing of mouth ulcers but also decreased the pain associated with the ulcer. [4]
Aloe vera has earned its reputation as a go-to natural remedy for canker sores thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. For centuries, people have turned to aloe vera to alleviate pain and promote healing in both skin and soft tissues, including the delicate lining of the mouth. When used as a canker sore treatment, aloe vera juice or gel can be applied directly to the sore, helping to reduce pain and inflammation. This natural solution not only provides comfort but also supports the healing process, making aloe vera a gentle yet effective way to manage canker sores and encourage faster recovery.
How to use aloe vera to help canker sores
Aloe works wonders for canker sores by targeting the root cause of discomfort and supporting the healing process. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and redness, while its soothing effects offer immediate relief from canker sore pain. Additionally, aloe vera’s antibacterial qualities help create a cleaner environment in the mouth, reducing the risk of infection and further irritation. By calming inflammation and promoting tissue repair, aloe vera helps canker sore sufferers experience less pain and a quicker return to normal oral health.
To get the most benefit from aloe vera for canker sores, start by applying aloe vera juice or gel directly to the sore with a clean cotton swab. This targeted approach delivers soothing relief right where it’s needed most. For an all-over calming effect, try rinsing your mouth with a mixture of aloe vera juice and warm water. This mouth rinse can help reduce pain and inflammation throughout the mouth. For minor canker sores, using aloe vera several times a day can provide significant pain relief and help speed up the healing process. If you’re dealing with severe canker sores or multiple sores that don’t improve, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider for additional treatment options.