10 Best Herbal Teas For Mouth Ulcers

Herbal teas can be a soothing and natural remedy for mouth ulcers, offering relief from pain and promoting healing.

Chamomile, peppermint, and licorice root are commonly used herbs known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. These teas can be brewed and used as a warm rinse or held in the mouth to reduce irritation and soothe the affected area. They are generally safe for most people, though those with allergies should exercise caution.

Regular use of herbal teas may help speed up the healing process and prevent future outbreaks.

1. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's wort, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

While it is often associated with treating mild depression, some studies suggest it may also be beneficial for oral health, including the treatment of mouth ulcers. When prepared as a herbal tea, hypericum perforatum can help soothe inflamed tissues and reduce the pain associated with ulcers. The active compounds in the herb, such as hypericin and hyperforin, are believed to contribute to its healing effects.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it, as it may interact with certain medications and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

2. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a medicinal plant that has been traditionally used to support oral health, including the treatment of mouth ulcers.

When brewed into a herbal tea, stinging nettle can help soothe inflamed tissues and reduce pain due to its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. The tea is believed to promote healing by encouraging the body's natural regenerative processes in the oral cavity. To prepare the tea, fresh or dried leaves are steeped in hot water for several minutes, and it can be consumed several times a day.

While generally safe, individuals with allergies to plants in the Urticaceae family should exercise caution before using stinging nettle tea for mouth ulcers.

3. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a popular herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to support immune function and reduce inflammation.

When brewed into a tea, echinacea may help alleviate symptoms of mouth ulcers by promoting healing and reducing irritation in the oral cavity. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties are believed to create a soothing effect on the mucous membranes, which can ease discomfort. Some studies suggest that echinacea may shorten the duration of mouth ulcers by enhancing the body's natural defenses.

However, while it is generally considered safe for short-term use, individuals with allergies to plants in the daisy family should exercise caution before consuming echinacea tea.

4. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used for its healing properties, including its potential benefits for mouth ulcers.

Herbal teas made from sage leaves are believed to soothe inflamed tissues and promote faster healing due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds. The natural antioxidants in sage may help reduce pain and irritation associated with ulcers, making it a popular remedy in natural health practices. To prepare the tea, steep a teaspoon of dried sage leaves in hot water for several minutes, then allow it to cool before using it as a mouth rinse or drinking it slowly.

While sage tea is generally safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially for prolonged periods or in combination with other treatments.

5. Aloe barbadensis

Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, has been traditionally used for its soothing and healing properties, making it a popular ingredient in herbal teas for mouth ulcers.

The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds that can help reduce pain and promote the healing of ulcers in the mouth. When brewed into a tea, aloe vera can provide a gentle, cooling effect that soothes irritated tissues and alleviates discomfort. It is often combined with other herbs like licorice root or chamomile to enhance its therapeutic benefits.

While generally safe for most people, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using aloe-based teas, especially for those with existing medical conditions or allergies.

6. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its soothing properties, making it a popular choice for treating mouth ulcers.

The active compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that help reduce pain and swelling in ulcers. When brewed into a herbal tea, licorice root can provide a calming effect on the mouth's mucous membranes, promoting healing and comfort. However, long-term use of licorice root tea may lead to side effects such as hypertension due to its impact on sodium retention.

It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using licorice root tea, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

7. Camellia sinensis

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green and black teas are derived, contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and antioxidants that may help in reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

These properties make Camellia sinensis herbal teas a potential natural remedy for mouth ulcers, as they can soothe irritated tissues and reduce bacterial growth. Studies suggest that the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects of these teas may aid in the healing process and alleviate discomfort. However, it is important to note that while some individuals may find relief from drinking these teas, they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment for persistent mouth ulcers.

As with any herbal remedy, individual responses can vary, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using Camellia sinensis teas for oral health issues.

8. Rosa canina

Rosa canina, also known as dog rose, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to support oral health and alleviate symptoms of mouth ulcers.

The anti-inflammatory and astringent properties of Rosa canina berries can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers. Drinking Rosa canina herbal tea may promote healing by encouraging the regeneration of oral tissues and providing a soothing effect on the mucous membranes. This tea is often recommended for its gentle nature, making it suitable for regular use without causing irritation.

Overall, Rosa canina herbal tea offers a natural and complementary approach to managing mouth ulcers through its nourishing and healing properties.

9. Chamomilla recutita

Chamomilla recutita, commonly known as German chamomile, is a popular herbal tea used for its soothing properties, particularly for treating mouth ulcers.

The tea contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds that help reduce pain, swelling, and infection in ulcers. It can be consumed as a warm beverage or applied directly to the affected area using a cotton swab for immediate relief. Regular use of chamomile tea may promote faster healing and prevent further irritation.

Due to its mild nature, it is generally safe for most people, though it should be avoided by those with allergies to plants in the daisy family.

10. Mentha piperita

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of mouth ulcers due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The cooling effect of peppermint can help reduce pain and irritation in the mouth, providing relief from the discomfort associated with ulcers. Peppermint tea may also help decrease the frequency of ulcers by improving digestive health and reducing stress, which are common triggers. To prepare the tea, simply steep fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water for several minutes.

While peppermint tea is generally safe, it should be consumed in moderation, as excessive use may cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals.