Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful ulcers that occur inside the mouth. They can develop on the tongue, inside the cheeks, and on the gums. It can be quite painful and disruptive to daily life, as it affects your ability to eat, drink, and speak comfortably. Treating canker sores can be challenging, but one natural remedy that has gained attention is alum powder. In this article, we will discuss how much effective is alum powder for canker shores. We will also discuss the best alum powder available in the market and alternatives to treat canker shores.
How to Identify canker shores?
It is important to identify canker shores before going further. The symptoms of canker shores includes a tingling or burning sensation inside the mouth, a small grey, white, or yellow sore of an oval shape, and painful sores with redness that appear on soft mouth tissues.
Reasons for Canker shores
You may be wondering about the causes of canker sores. While the exact reason for their emergence is not completely known, there are several theories.
One theory is that genetics may play a role. Additionally, hormonal changes, particularly in women, can also be a contributing factor.
Other potential causes of canker sores include trauma to the lips or mouth, such as accidental lip biting or abrasions from braces. Stress can also be a factor, as can a lack of vitamins and minerals.
It’s important to note that canker sores are not contagious, so you don’t need to worry about spreading them to others.
Why choose Alum powder for canker shores
You may be wondering why alum is commonly used to treat canker sores. Alum has astringent properties, which can help to eliminate canker sores by reducing moisture and shrinking soft mouth tissues. This can accentuate the healing process and provide pain relief. Additionally, alum has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce swelling and tenderness in the affected area.
How to apply Alum powder
The method of application is simple. Take a small amount of alum powder and gently apply it to the surface of your canker sore. Wait a minute while the alum powder works its magic, but make sure not to consume it, as it can cause health-related issues. After a minute, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit the alum powder out. Repeat this process daily until your canker sore heals.
If you feel a slight sting while applying the alum powder, don’t worry. You can mix the alum powder with a drop of water to make a paste or cream for a gentler approach. Follow the steps given above, but just add a drop of water to the alum powder.
Precautions Using Alum Powder for canker sore
Alum powder is a type of salt that has astringent properties, meaning it can help to tighten and dry out the tissues in your mouth. Theoretically, applying alum powder to a canker sore may chemically cauterize the ulcer, essentially burning it and allowing it to heal more quickly.
While there is some anecdotal evidence and a small study suggesting that alum powder may help to reduce pain and speed up healing, it is important to keep in mind that this is not a widely accepted medical treatment and has not been extensively studied.
In addition to exploring alternative remedies, there are also other steps you can take to manage your canker sores, such as avoiding spicy or acidic foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and using over-the-counter pain relievers.
TOP 4 ALUM POWDERS FOR CANKER SORE
1. MB Herbals Alum Powder
MB Herbals Alum Powder. It is a granulated food-grade potassium alum, used as a natural food preservative, especially for pickles. It helps in maintaining the crispiness of pickles, vegetables, and processed food items. It can also be used as a water purifier and to reduce foot and body odor. Additionally, alum is used in cosmetics as a preservative and as a fabric mordant. The package comes in a bag with a unit count of 3.5274 ounces and an item weight of 100 grams.
2. Purifi Alumbre en Polvo Alum Powder
The second item is Purifi Alumbre en Polvo Alum Powder. It is alum powder, also known as potassium aluminum sulfate, used to purify water, relieve canker sores, reduce body odor, and prevent wilt in cut hydrangea blooms. Alum mixed with wax can also be used to remove unwanted hair and for skin tightening and whitening. It comes in a bag packaging with a unit count of 8.0 ounces and an item weight of 0.5 pounds.
3. Alumbre en Polvo Alum Powder
The third item is Alumbre en Polvo Alum Powder by ELP ESSENTIAL. It is an antiseptic powder used as a styptic to aid with minor scrapes and cuts, and to inhibit bacterial growth. The package comes in a jar with an item weight of 4 ounces.
4. Urban ReLeaf Oral Wound Cleansing Salt
The fourth item is Urban ReLeaf Oral Wound Cleansing Salt. It is a natural healing solution made from Dead Sea Salt, Mediterranean Sea Salt, Aloe Vera, and Vitamin E. It soothes and heals oral wounds, including those caused by dental work, braces, mouth, gum, and canker sores. It comes in bottle packaging with a unit count of 1.0 and makes 45 cups of healing solution.
How long do canker sores last?
Although cancer sores are a common condition, they can be painful and disruptive to your daily life. However, I want to reassure you that most canker sores heal on their own within a couple of weeks and usually do not cause lasting damage.
It is understandable that you may want to find a way to speed up the healing process and ease your discomfort. There are several home remedies and over-the-counter products that may be helpful, but it is important to keep in mind that they are not magical cures. It is unlikely that any remedy will cure a canker sore overnight.
Alternative Ways for canker sore treatment
Mouth Wash
One way to prevent the spread of germs and reduce inflammation associated with canker sores is by using mouthwash. Mouthwashes that contain chlorhexidine can be effective for this purpose. It’s best to avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol, as they can irritate the sore and make the pain worse.
There are also over-the-counter mouthwashes that are specifically designed for mouth sores. These may contain lidocaine, which can provide relief from pain. If your canker sores are particularly painful, you may want to consider using a mouthwash that contains lidocaine.
In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a mouthwash that contains dexamethasone or lidocaine. These prescription mouthwashes can be especially helpful if you have multiple canker sores or if your canker sores are particularly large or painful.
Prescribed Medicine
In addition to using mouthwashes, there are several over-the-counter treatments available for canker sores. One option is to use anesthetics in gel or cream form that contains lidocaine. These can help to provide relief from pain and inflammation. You can find these products at most drugstores or online.
Corticosteroids can also be used to help with pain and promote healing. There are several over-the-counter products available that contain corticosteroids. These can also be found at most drugstores or online.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) containing diclofenac can be effective in reducing pain associated with canker sores. These are also available over the counter and can be found at most drugstores or online.
However, it is important to note that if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult with your doctor before using any of these treatments.
Rinse with Saltwater
Using a saltwater rinse can be a simple and effective way to help dry out canker sores. To use this remedy, dissolve one teaspoon of salt in 1/2 cup of warm water. Swish the solution in your mouth for 15-30 seconds, then spit it out. You can repeat this process every few hours as needed.
This remedy can be helpful in reducing pain and inflammation associated with canker sores.
Rinse with Baking soda
Baking soda is a simple and natural remedy that can help to restore the pH balance in your mouth and reduce inflammation, which may aid in the healing of canker sores. To use this remedy, dissolve one teaspoon of baking soda in 1/2 cup of water. Swish the solution in your mouth for 15-30 seconds, then spit it out. You can repeat this process every few hours as needed.
Consuming Yogurt
It’s possible that some canker sores may be caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A study conducted on mice in 2020 showed that live probiotic cultures, like Lactobacillus, may help to eliminate H. pylori. If either of these conditions are the cause of your canker sores, consuming yogurt that contains live probiotic cultures may be helpful. However, it’s important to note that further research on humans is needed.
In addition to potentially helping with the underlying causes of canker sores, consuming yogurt with live probiotic cultures may also be helpful in preventing or treating canker sores in general. It’s recommended to eat at least 1 cup of yogurt per day.
Applying Honey
One thing that you may find helpful is incorporating honey into your daily routine. Honey has many benefits, including antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A 2014 study found that honey can be effective in reducing canker sore pain, size, and redness, as well as preventing secondary infection.
To use honey for this purpose, simply apply it to the affected area four times daily. Unpasteurized, unfiltered honey, such as Manuka honey, is less processed and retains its healing properties.
While this may seem like a small change, incorporating honey into your routine can be a simple and effective way to help alleviate your symptoms.
Applying Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural remedy that has antimicrobial properties due to its high amount of lauric acid. This can help to treat canker sores caused by bacteria and prevent them from spreading. Additionally, coconut oil is a natural anti-inflammatory and may help reduce redness and pain associated with canker sores.
To use coconut oil for this purpose, generously apply it to the sore and reapply several times per day until your canker sore is gone. You can find coconut oil at most grocery stores or online.
Using Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a simple and inexpensive remedy that can promote the healing of a canker sore by cleaning the sore and reducing bacteria in your mouth. To use, dilute a 3 percent solution of hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water, dip a cotton ball or cotton swab into the mixture, and apply it directly to your canker sore a few times daily. You can also use diluted hydrogen peroxide as a mouth rinse.
Using Milk of Magnesia
Hydrogen peroxide is a simple and inexpensive remedy that can promote the healing of a canker sore by cleaning the sore and reducing bacteria in your mouth. To use, dilute a 3 percent solution of hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water, dip a cotton ball or cotton swab into the mixture, and apply it directly to your canker sore a few times daily. You can also use diluted hydrogen peroxide as a mouth rinse.
Using Chamomile Compress
Chamomile is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to heal wounds and ease pain. German chamomile contains two compounds with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic abilities: azulene and levomenol. These compounds make chamomile an effective treatment for canker sores.
To use chamomile for this purpose, you can apply a wet chamomile tea bag to your canker sore and leave it on for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can rinse your mouth with freshly brewed chamomile tea. Repeat the treatment three to four times daily.
Using Echinacea
Echinacea is a natural remedy that has wound-healing and immune-boosting properties. These properties may help to heal canker sores or prevent them from forming. To use echinacea for this purpose, add about 1 teaspoon of liquid echinacea to equal parts warm water, swish the solution around your mouth for about 2 minutes, and spit it out or swallow the mixture. Alternatively, rinsing your mouth with echinacea tea may also be beneficial. Repeat either treatment up to three times daily.
Sage Tea
Sage tea has traditionally been used to remedy mouth inflammation. Sage mouthwash works as a general mouth rinse for many oral problems. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and astringent properties, and may also help relieve pain associated with canker sores.
You can find sage mouthwash in most pharmacies, or you can make your own sage rinse by adding boiling water to 1 to 2 teaspoons of fresh sage leaves, steeping for at least 5 minutes, straining, and letting the solution cool. Swish the rinse around your mouth for a couple of minutes, then swallow or spit it out.
Using DGL Mouthwash
DGL mouthwash is a natural remedy made from deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), an herbal licorice extract. It is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties and is considered a natural remedy for stomach ulcers. DGL is available in supplement form, which can be used to make a mouthwash.
To use DGL mouthwash, mix the powder of one DGL capsule (200 milligrams) with 1 cup of warm water. Swish the solution around your mouth for about 3 minutes, then spit it out.
DGL is also available as a mouth patch to help shrink canker sores. Apply the patch to a sore and leave it in place for at least 30 minutes. If you are interested in trying the mouth patch, it is important to consult with a doctor or dentist about where to purchase it and if it is a suitable option for you.
Applying Apple Cider Vinegar Mouthwash
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is claimed to be a cure for almost everything, including canker sores. It is thought that the acid in ACV helps kill bacteria that irritate the sore. However, acidic foods can cause or worsen canker sores in some people, so use it with caution.
To use ACV for canker sores, combine 1 tsp. of ACV and 1 cup of water. Swish this mixture around your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then spit it out and rinse your mouth thoroughly. Repeat this treatment daily.
Applying ACV directly to the canker sore with a cotton swab may speed up healing time for some, but it could cause additional pain and irritation for others. It is important to remember to always rinse your mouth after using ACV to prevent damage to tooth enamel.
ACV can be a simple and effective way to help alleviate your symptoms, but it is important to use it with caution and to monitor any potential negative effects it may have on your canker sores.
Applying Zinc Lozenges
It’s possible that your canker sores are related to a weak immune system. One mineral that is known to boost immunity is zinc. Taking zinc lozenges may help your immune system fight off the bacteria that cause canker sores and could speed up healing time.
You can find zinc lozenges at most pharmacies and online. Some zinc lozenges may also contain other ingredients, such as echinacea. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s directions for use when taking zinc lozenges.
Another supplement that may be helpful for reducing canker sore outbreaks is a vitamin B complex supplement. A diet low in vitamin B12 has been linked to more frequent canker sores, and a 2009 study found that participants taking 1,000 micrograms of vitamin B12 daily had fewer canker sore outbreaks, fewer sores overall, and less pain than those taking a placebo.
A vitamin B complex supplement contains all eight B vitamins, including B12. However, it’s important to consult with a doctor before using vitamin B complex supplements, as they may cause side effects in some people.
Using Watermelon Frost
Watermelon frost has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine as a remedy for canker sores. It is available in the form of a powder, tablet, or spray and can be applied directly to the sore for pain relief and faster healing.
You can purchase watermelon frost from an Asian herb store or online, but you can also make your own by following these steps:
- Cut a small, seedless watermelon into thin slices and remove the rind.
- Lay the watermelon slices on a baking sheet and place them in the oven on low heat for several hours, until they are completely dried out.
- Grind the dried watermelon slices into a fine powder using a food processor or coffee grinder.
- Store the watermelon frost powder in an airtight container.
When you are ready to use the watermelon frost, simply apply a small amount directly to the canker sore. Repeat this process several times a day, as needed.
When to see your doctor in an emergency?
It’s important to remember that most canker sores are not a cause for concern and will heal on their own. However, there are some situations where it may be necessary to seek medical attention.
If your canker sore is larger than 1-3 centimeters in size, if you have multiple sores, or if new sores form before old ones have healed, it may be a good idea to talk to a doctor. Additionally, if the sore doesn’t heal after two weeks, spreads to your lips, causes extreme pain, or makes eating or drinking intolerable, these are also signs that it may be necessary to seek medical attention. If you also have a fever, this could be a sign of infection and requires immediate medical attention.
If your canker sore is caused by a jagged or sharp tooth or a dental hygiene tool, it’s important to contact a dentist or doctor. They can help identify the cause of the sore and provide treatment to alleviate any discomfort.
Remember that taking care of your physical health is essential for maintaining emotional well-being. If you are experiencing physical discomfort related to canker sores, it’s essential to seek medical attention to ensure proper treatment and prevent any complications.
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Conclusion
Alum powder is a versatile and time-tested natural remedy for canker sores. With its astringent and antiseptic properties, it can help speed up the healing process and alleviate discomfort. While there are alternative treatments available, alum powder is a cost-effective and readily available option for those seeking relief from painful canker sores.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alum Powder and Canker Sores
1. How long does it take for a canker sore to heal after using alum powder?
Canker sores typically heal within 7-14 days. However, using alum powder may help speed up the healing process, and you may notice improvement within a few days.
2. Can I use alum powder for other types of mouth ulcers or sores?
Alum powder is primarily used for canker sores, but it may provide relief for other types of mouth ulcers or sores as well. Consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
3. Is alum powder safe for children with canker sores?
Alum powder is generally considered safe for children, but it’s essential to use it cautiously and follow the recommended usage instructions. If you have any concerns, consult a pediatrician.
4. Can I use alum powder if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
There is limited information on the safety of using alum powder during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It’s best to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
5. Can alum powder cause tooth staining?
Alum powder is not known to cause tooth staining. However, it’s crucial to rinse your mouth thoroughly after using alum powder to prevent any residue from remaining on your teeth.