10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Reddened Corners In Mouth

Herbal essential oils have gained popularity for their potential to soothe and heal reddened corners of the mouth, commonly known as angular cheilitis.

Oils such as tea tree, lavender, and peppermint are often used due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce irritation and infection. These oils can be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil before applying to the affected area to prevent skin irritation. Regular application may help alleviate symptoms and promote healing, though it is important to consult a healthcare professional if the condition persists or worsens.

Combining essential oils with good oral hygiene and proper nutrition can support overall mouth health and prevent recurrence.

1. Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula officinalis, commonly known as garden marigold, is a flowering plant whose essential oil is widely used in natural remedies for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The essential oil of calendula is derived through steam distillation of its flowers and contains compounds such as flavonoids and triterpenoids that help reduce redness and irritation. When applied topically, it can provide relief for reddened corners of the mouth, often caused by lip biting, friction, or minor infections. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for sensitive skin, and it is often used in lip balms and salves.

Regular use of calendula essential oil may help promote healing and prevent further irritation in the delicate oral area.

2. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is a popular herbal plant known for its calming properties and therapeutic benefits.

Its essential oil, derived through steam distillation of the flowering tops, contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. When applied topically to reddened corners of the mouth, lavender essential oil can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritation. However, it should always be diluted with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.

Regular use of lavender essential oil may promote healing and prevent further irritation in the delicate skin around the mouth.

3. Melaleuca (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Melaleuca alternifolia, commonly known as tea tree oil, is a popular essential oil known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

It is often used in natural remedies to address reddened corners of the mouth, a condition sometimes caused by infections, irritation, or fungal growth. When diluted properly with a carrier oil, tea tree oil can help reduce inflammation and soothe the sensitive skin around the lips. Its ability to combat bacteria and fungi makes it an effective choice for treating minor infections in this area.

However, it is important to use it cautiously and consult a healthcare professional before applying it to the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin or existing medical conditions.

4. St. john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is a flowering plant that has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties.

Its essential oils, derived from the dried flowers, contain bioactive compounds such as hypericin and flavonoids, which may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. When applied topically, these essential oils can help soothe and reduce inflammation in the reddened corners of the mouth, often caused by irritations or infections. However, it is important to dilute the essential oil properly with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.

While some studies suggest potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety for this specific use.

5. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, is a herb that has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.

Its essential oil, derived through steam distillation of the dried plant, contains compounds such as chamazulene and bisabolol, which are known for their soothing and healing effects. When applied topically, this essential oil can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the reddened corners of the mouth, often caused by lip-licking, irritation, or minor infections. It is recommended to dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or almond oil, before applying to the affected area to avoid skin irritation.

Regular use of Achillea millefolium essential oil may promote skin healing and provide relief from persistent redness and discomfort around the mouth.

6. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.

These oils may help reduce reddened corners of the mouth by soothing irritation and promoting healing. The active compounds in stinging nettle essential oils, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, can help alleviate inflammation and prevent further skin irritation. When applied topically, these oils can create a protective barrier that shields the delicate skin around the mouth.

However, it is important to dilute the essential oil properly before use to avoid skin irritation, as undiluted essential oils can be too potent for sensitive areas.

7. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.

These oils, particularly rich in compounds like thujone and cineole, can help soothe and reduce inflammation in the delicate skin around the mouth. When applied topically, sage essential oil may help to alleviate redness and irritation at the corners of the mouth, often caused by conditions like angular cheilitis. However, it is important to dilute the oil with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.

Regular and gentle application of diluted sage essential oil can support healing and provide relief for persistent redness in the mouth area.

8. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a popular herbal plant often used in traditional medicine for its purported immune-boosting properties.

While it is more commonly associated with immune support, some essential oils derived from Echinacea purpurea have been explored for their potential soothing effects on the skin. These oils may contain compounds that could help reduce inflammation and irritation, making them a possible remedy for reddened corners of the mouth, a condition often linked to lip eczema or angular cheilitis. However, it is important to note that scientific evidence supporting the use of Echinacea essential oils specifically for this condition is limited.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have known allergies or are using other topical treatments.

9. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Cinnamomum zeylanicum, commonly known as cinnamon bark, is a popular herbal source for essential oils that may help alleviate reddened corners of the mouth, a condition often linked to lip inflammation or irritation.

The essential oil derived from this plant contains potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can soothe and protect the delicate skin around the lips. When diluted properly, cinnamon essential oil can be applied topically to reduce redness and promote healing of the affected area. However, due to its strong nature, it should always be mixed with a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation.

Regular use of this essential oil, alongside proper hydration and lip care, may contribute to improved lip health and reduced inflammation.

10. Dog rose (Rosa canina)

Rosa canina, also known as dog rose, is a traditional herbal remedy often used in the form of essential oils to address various skin and mucous membrane issues.

Its essential oils are valued for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which can help soothe and heal reddened corners of the mouth, a common condition known as angular cheilitis. The gentle nature of rosa canina essential oils makes them suitable for sensitive oral areas, providing a natural alternative to conventional treatments. When diluted properly with a carrier oil, these essential oils can be applied topically to reduce irritation and promote tissue repair.

Regular use of rosa canina essential oils may offer long-term relief and support the overall health of the lips and surrounding skin.