Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are a common source of oral discomfort. These small, painful lesions make daily activities like eating, drinking, and talking difficult, leading many individuals to seek fast relief through home remedies. Coconut oil is a frequently searched natural solution, widely available and reputed for promoting wellness. This interest prompts a closer look at whether it can genuinely assist in managing these irritating mouth ulcers.
Defining Canker Sores and Their Causes
A canker sore is a small, shallow lesion that develops on the non-keratinized tissues inside the mouth, such as the cheeks, lips, tongue, or the base of the gums. The ulcers typically have a white or yellowish center surrounded by a bright red, inflamed border. Unlike cold sores, which are caused by the herpes virus and are highly contagious, canker sores are not contagious and do not occur on the outside of the lips.
The exact cause of canker sores remains unknown, but their appearance is often linked to a combination of factors. Common triggers include emotional stress and minor injuries to the mouth lining, such as those caused by dental work or accidentally biting the cheek. Dietary deficiencies, particularly a lack of vitamin B12, iron, zinc, or folic acid, have also been associated with increased occurrences. They may also be a manifestation of an immune system response or sensitivity to ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) found in some oral care products.
Therapeutic Properties of Coconut Oil
The widespread use of coconut oil is largely attributed to its unique fatty acid composition, particularly its high concentration of lauric acid. Lauric acid is a medium-chain triglyceride that accounts for approximately 45% to 52% of the oil’s content. When applied, lauric acid breaks down into monolaurin, which is recognized for its potent antimicrobial capabilities.
Monolaurin has been shown to inhibit various pathogens, including bacteria, fungi like C. albicans, and enveloped viruses. The antimicrobial mechanism involves disrupting the lipid membranes of these microbes. Coconut oil also possesses anti-inflammatory properties and acts as an emollient, offering a soothing, protective layer when applied topically.
Using Coconut Oil for Oral Ulcers
The rationale for using coconut oil on canker sores is based on its ability to provide a physical barrier and its antimicrobial action, which may help prevent secondary infection while the ulcer heals. Some dental professionals note the oil primarily provides a coating to reduce sensitivity rather than actively healing the lesion. However, studies have explored its direct application.
One randomized trial comparing virgin coconut oil (VCO) to a conventional treatment for minor recurrent aphthous ulcers found that VCO application resulted in a significant reduction in pain by the fifth day of treatment. Although the study did not find a significant difference in the reduction of the ulcer size, the benefit of pain relief suggests a practical application. For use, a small amount of solid, unrefined coconut oil can be gently dabbed directly onto the canker sore using a clean cotton swab. This creates a temporary film that shields the raw nerve endings from irritation caused by food or saliva.
If a canker sore persists beyond two weeks, is unusually large, or is accompanied by a high fever, professional medical consultation is necessary to rule out other underlying conditions.