Mouth sores are a common and often uncomfortable issue. Many seek natural home remedies to alleviate discomfort and promote healing. Coconut oil has gained popularity as a potential natural solution for various ailments, including mouth sores. This article explores its potential benefits by examining its properties and available research.
Understanding Mouth Sores
Mouth sores, also known as oral ulcers, are lesions that can develop on the gums, lips, tongue, inner cheeks, or the roof of the mouth. They often cause pain and discomfort, especially when eating, drinking, or speaking. While many are harmless and resolve on their own, their presence can significantly impact daily activities.
Common types include canker sores, which typically appear inside the mouth as shallow sores with a white or yellow center and a red border. Cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus, are another type, usually forming outside the mouth on the lips and are highly contagious. Mouth sores can result from minor injuries, irritation from dental work or braces, acidic foods, stress, or underlying health conditions or infections.
Coconut Oil’s Potential Properties
Coconut oil contains compounds with properties potentially relevant to oral health and mouth sore treatment. A primary component is lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid. Lauric acid exhibits strong antimicrobial effects, helping combat various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Beyond its antimicrobial actions, coconut oil is also recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce redness and swelling. Additionally, its moisturizing quality provides a physical barrier, offering a soothing effect and protecting irritated tissues. These combined properties suggest a theoretical basis for its use in managing oral discomfort.
What the Research Says and How to Use It
Research specifically examining coconut oil’s effectiveness for mouth sores is limited, though some studies explore its broader oral health benefits. While anecdotal reports suggest it may help with canker sores by reducing pain and inflammation, scientific evidence directly supporting its ability to cure mouth sores is not robust. Some dental professionals suggest that while coconut oil might coat the sore to reduce sensitivity, it does not necessarily promote healing.
For general oral hygiene, “oil pulling” (swishing coconut oil in the mouth) has been studied for its potential to reduce harmful bacteria and plaque. Some studies indicate that oil pulling with coconut oil can reduce bacterial counts in saliva, such as Streptococcus mutans, associated with tooth decay. For mouth sores, it is typically applied topically by dabbing a small amount directly onto the sore several times a day. For oil pulling, swish about one tablespoon for 15 to 20 minutes, then spit it into the trash to avoid clogging drains.
Important Considerations for Mouth Sores
While coconut oil may offer some soothing benefits due to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Most common mouth sores, like canker sores, heal on their own within one to two weeks. However, persistent or severe sores warrant medical attention.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional if a mouth sore lasts longer than two weeks, recurs frequently, is unusually large or painful, or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, weight loss, or difficulty eating or drinking. These symptoms could indicate an underlying health issue that requires diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Additionally, be aware of potential sensitivities or allergic reactions to coconut oil, though these are uncommon.