Method 8: Coconut Oil
Coconut oil, derived from the meat of mature coconuts, is a staple in many households for its culinary and therapeutic properties. Its pleasant aroma and light texture make it a popular choice in skincare routines and dietary habits. Beyond its superficial uses, the medium-chain fatty acids, primarily lauric acid, found in coconut oil possess impressive antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This positions it as an effective, natural remedy for mouth ulcers.
Lauric acid, which makes up about half of the fatty acids in coconut oil, is celebrated for its ability to combat harmful microorganisms. When applied to mouth ulcers, it can target bacteria that might exacerbate the ulcer’s condition. By keeping the ulcer clean and free from harmful bacteria, coconut oil indirectly paves the way for faster healing.
The application is refreshingly simple. After ensuring your hands are clean, take a small amount of virgin coconut oil on your fingertip and gently dab it onto the mouth ulcer. Virgin coconut oil is preferable due to its minimal processing, which retains most of its natural benefits. The oil forms a protective layer over the ulcer, shielding it from further irritants and speeding up the healing process.
Topical application of coconut oil is generally safe. However, when choosing your oil, ensure it’s of high quality and preferably organic. Some individuals also advocate for the consumption of a tablespoon of coconut oil daily, asserting that its anti-inflammatory properties can benefit the body from the inside, potentially reducing the recurrence of mouth ulcers. (8)