How to Use Alum for Canker Sores: Benefits, Usage, and Safety
Alum is a widely used, traditional remedy for treating canker sores. This affordable home treatment has provided quick pain relief and faster healing for generations. Below, we discuss how to safely use alum powder, potential side effects, and address common safety concerns regarding aluminum.
How to Apply Alum Powder to Canker Sores
Follow these easy steps for applying alum powder to your canker sore:
Moisten a cotton swab with water.
Dip the wet cotton swab into a small amount of alum powder.
Gently apply the alum directly onto the canker sore, avoiding contact with the rest of your mouth due to the alum's bitter taste.
Leave it on for approximately 5 minutes, then thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.
Repeat this treatment up to three times daily until the sore heals.
Many users report significant improvement shortly after beginning alum treatments. ...
How to Use Alum for Canker Sores: Benefits, Usage, and Safety
Alum is a widely used, traditional remedy for treating canker sores. This affordable home treatment has provided quick pain relief and faster healing for generations. Below, we discuss how to safely use alum powder, potential side effects, and address common safety concerns regarding aluminum.
How to Apply Alum Powder to Canker Sores
Follow these easy steps for applying alum powder to your canker sore:
Moisten a cotton swab with water.
Dip the wet cotton swab into a small amount of alum powder.
Gently apply the alum directly onto the canker sore, avoiding contact with the rest of your mouth due to the alum's bitter taste.
Leave it on for approximately 5 minutes, then thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.
Repeat this treatment up to three times daily until the sore heals.
Many users report significant improvement shortly after beginning alum treatments.
Potential Side Effects of Alum
Applying alum powder to a canker sore usually causes a temporary stinging or burning sensation. However, many users agree that this brief discomfort is minor compared to the ongoing pain of untreated canker sores. If the burning sensation becomes too intense, rinse immediately with water.
Alum and Alzheimer's Disease: Addressing Common Concerns
A frequently mentioned concern about using alum for canker sores relates to its aluminum content and potential links to Alzheimer's disease. While ongoing exposure to aluminum from deodorants, cookware, or canned foods may present long-term risks, occasional topical application of alum for canker sores is unlikely to pose significant harm.
One Earth Clinic reader, Selia from Ocala, Florida, shared her reassuring experience:
"I've used alum for decades to treat chronic canker sores. My mother also used alum throughout her life and lived to 87 without any signs of dementia. I'm 70 and still sharp as a tack. Alum is effective, and you shouldn't be afraid to use it occasionally."
Nevertheless, if you have existing risk factors for Alzheimer's or are concerned about aluminum exposure, you might consider exploring alternative natural remedies for canker sores.
Alternative Natural Remedies for Canker Sores
If you'd prefer to avoid alum, Earth Clinic readers have found numerous effective canker sore remedies, including:
Coconut oil (natural antimicrobial)
Apple cider vinegar (balances mouth pH)
L-Lysine supplements (reduce recurrence)
Aloe vera gel (soothes inflammation)
Baking soda paste (neutralizes acidity)
Preventing Canker Sores: Identify the Root Cause
For chronic sufferers, identifying and addressing underlying triggers, such as nutritional deficiencies, food sensitivities, or stress, can significantly reduce the recurrence of canker sores. Consider keeping a food journal or adjusting your diet and lifestyle to find relief.
Conclusion
Alum is a tried-and-true home remedy for rapidly relieving canker sore discomfort. While concerns about aluminum exposure exist, occasional topical use appears safe for most people. Consider alternative remedies if you have specific health concerns or recurring issues.
Read below for detailed feedback from Earth Clinic readers who've successfully used alum for canker sores. Have you tried alum for your mouth ulcers? Please share your experience with our community!
