Anyhow, what we do to treat a cankersore is merely moisten a Q-tip, and dip it in a very small amount of alum mixed with a teaspoon of warm water. After the alum is on for a few minutes, just rinse your mouth because the alum is very bitter. People also use alum as a mouthwash and to treat gum disease or aching teeth. It's used to treat eczema itching, and styes as well. I'm sure the solution would need to be much milder for use on the eyes, or as a mouthwash, or in treating eczema. Anyway, I hope others might want to mention their experiences with using this common household ingredient. Mariana
Replied By Robert Henry (Ten Mile, Tn Usa ) on 12/23/2011
ALUM us Aluminum Sulfate, ole folks like me made the mistake of using it to make pickles and other canned goods, crisp. All we did is put Aluminum in our brains, which brings on dememtia. I don't have a clue about the use of alum on your skin. Do not use Alum for internal consumption. We all are savvy about transdermal therapy. What you put on your skin goes into your body. Why do you think the chelation clinics are full of auto mechanics who washed parts in leaded gasoline. Now they are trying to get the lead our of their body.
Good people there are lots of good intentioned folks posting on this site. Some just don't have a clue. Pay attention.
========ROBERT HENRY=============
Replied By Susan (San Francisco, Ca) on 01/20/2012
My grandmother taught me this when I was a kid (I'm 57). I've tried other remedies and the Alum has always been the cure that worked fastest for me.Replied By Jessica (Waconia, Minnesota) on 01/26/2012
I use Alum for cold sores and canker sores too! It is utterly amazing how fast they disappear with just a couple applications. I refuse to spend money on anything else. Cheapest most effective treatment out there! I tell everyone about it when I can!Replied By Maria (Gippsland, Australia) on 01/26/2012
Could someone please tell me what is the Alum that is often refered to here? I have done a search and found that it can be either potassium alum, soda alum (used in baking powder), ferric alum or ammonium alum. Thanks.Replied By Didi (Dover, Usa) on 02/12/2012
Alum is a salty substance used in Pickeling or a brine. You can get it in the spice section of the grocery store.Replied By Maria (Gippsland, Australia) on 02/13/2012
Thanks Didi for that. I have never seen it here (Australia) but maybe it is sold under another name and not the name Alum.Replied By Derek (Austin, Mn) on 04/26/2012
The Alum referred to here is Ammonium-type Alum. I've got an ancient container of Schilling Alum. On the container it reads, "Powdered Alum (Ammonium)".