Oral Health

Canker Sores & Mouth Ulcers

Speed healing of painful aphthous ulcers, reduce recurrence, and address the nutrient deficiencies (B12, iron, folate, zinc) most often driving them.

Prevention

Key nutrients: Vitamin B12, folate, iron, zinc, vitamin C, L-lysine, vitamin D.

Eat regularly: Eggs, liver, leafy greens, citrus, oysters, sardines, pumpkin seeds, fermented foods, bone broth. Avoid SLS-containing toothpaste (a major trigger), acidic and abrasive foods during flares.

Test B12, ferritin, and folate if ulcers recur. Manage stress, sleep, and gluten sensitivity — celiac and IBD often present with recurrent canker sores.

DGL licorice (rinse)

HerbStrong evidence

Dissolve 1 DGL tablet in warm water and swish 2–3 min, 3–4×/day — clinically shown to shorten canker sores by ~50%.

Propolis

OtherStrong evidence

Propolis tincture dabbed on the ulcer or 500 mg orally daily — antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and accelerates healing.

L-lysine

OtherModerate evidence

1000 mg 3×/day at first sign, then 1000 mg/day for prevention if recurrent.

Vitamin B12 (sublingual)

VitaminStrong evidence

1000 mcg methylcobalamin daily — significantly reduces recurrence in clinical trials, even when blood B12 is 'normal.'

Zinc lozenge

MineralModerate evidence

Dissolve a zinc gluconate lozenge slowly in the mouth — speeds healing and reduces pain.

Sage & salt rinse

HerbTraditional use

Strong sage tea with a pinch of sea salt as a mouth rinse 3×/day — astringent and antimicrobial; traditional European remedy.

Manuka honey

FoodModerate evidence

Dab MGO 400+ manuka honey directly on the ulcer 3–4×/day — antimicrobial and accelerates tissue repair.

Borax 6C (homeopathic)

OtherTraditional use

3–5 pellets 3×/day — classic homeopathic remedy for painful mouth ulcers, especially in children, with sensitivity to acidic or hot foods.

A note of caution. Natural doesn't mean risk-free. Herbs and supplements can interact with medications, affect pregnancy, or worsen certain conditions. Speak with a qualified clinician before starting a new regimen, especially if you take prescriptions.