By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 18, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Mouth Ulcers
Herbal creams for mouth ulcers are topical ointments containing plant extracts that help soothe and heal mouth ulcers.
These creams are made from natural ingredients such as aloe vera, calendula, and tea tree oil, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Examples of herbal creams include Aloe Vera Gel and Calendula Cream.
They provide relief from pain and discomfort, allowing individuals to eat and speak comfortably, and significantly improve their quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for mouth ulcers, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Echinacea angustifolia
- 4. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 5. Mentha x piperita
- 6. Ulmus rubra
- 7. Curcuma longa
- 8. Zingiber officinale
- 9. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 10. Matricaria chamomilla
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for mouth ulcers?
- What ailments similar to mouth ulcers are treated with herbal creams?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains compounds that reduce swelling and ease pain. When applied to a mouth ulcer, aloe vera cream can help to calm the area and promote healing. Its antibacterial properties also prevent infections from developing, allowing the ulcer to recover quickly and reducing the risk of complications.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat mouth ulcers and other oral health issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with mouth ulcers.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin is an anthraquinone glycoside that helps with mouth ulcers by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which reduce pain, swelling, and the risk of infection.
- Aloe barbadensis polysaccharides: Aloe barbadensis polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates that help with mouth ulcers by promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the production of growth factors that repair damaged tissues.
- Vitamins: Vitamins A, C, and E in Aloe vera creams help with mouth ulcers by providing antioxidant protection, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting the healing process by enhancing collagen synthesis and tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: The gel from the leaves of Aloe vera is used to make creams for mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to reduce pain and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for mouth ulcers.
- Gather 100g of pure aloe vera gel from 2-3 mature aloe vera plants and 50g of coconut oil in a container.
- Infuse 20g of dried herbs in 100ml of carrier oil such as coconut oil for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Melt 50g of coconut oil and 20g of beeswax in a double boiler or a heat proof bowl set over a pot of boiling water.
- Whip the melted mixture with 10g of shea butter and 10g of vitamin e oil until it thickens and emulsifies.
2. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in Calendula, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, work together to reduce pain, swelling, and bleeding in the affected area. Additionally, its antibacterial and antifungal properties help prevent infection, promoting a faster healing process.
By creating a protective barrier and soothing the tissue, Calendula creams can help alleviate discomfort and speed up the recovery of mouth ulcers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with mouth ulcers.
- Naphthoquinones: These compounds have been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce pain and promote healing in mouth ulcers.
- Carotenoids: Specifically, Calendula extracts contain beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A that promotes wound healing, reduces inflammation, and protects against oxidative stress in mouth ulcers.
- Triterpene saponins: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which can help soothe and protect the oral mucosa, reducing discomfort and promoting the healing of mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for mouth ulcers.
- Flowers: Used in creams for mouth ulcers due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and protect the affected area.
- Leaves: Used in creams for mouth ulcers due to their ability to reduce pain and inflammation, promoting a faster healing process.
- Seeds: Used in creams for mouth ulcers due to their potential to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that can exacerbate the condition.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest the calendula flowers on a dry sunny day for a high potency extract.
- Infuse 100g of dried calendula flowers in 1l of carrier oil like sweet almond oil for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the calendula extract.
- Mix 100g of the calendula extract with 100g of beeswax and 100g of shea butter to create a smooth paste.
- Add 50ml of distilled water and 20ml of vitamin e oil to the paste and heat it gently to emulsify.
3. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, help to reduce swelling and promote healing in the affected area. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of Echinacea angustifolia cream help to combat bacterial and viral infections that can contribute to the formation of mouth ulcers.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for soothing and healing mouth ulcers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with mouth ulcers.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, such as echinacoside, may help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, which can aid in the recovery from mouth ulcers.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids like echinamine and echinacin may possess anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, helping to alleviate mouth ulcer pain and accelerate the healing process.
- Polyphenols: Polyphenols, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing oxidative stress and promoting the healing of mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for mouth ulcers.
- Roots: The roots are often used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory and healing properties beneficial for mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain similar bioactive compounds to the roots, providing a potential alternative for treating mouth ulcers.
- Flowers: The flowers are used as they contain some bioactive compounds, although in lower concentrations compared to the roots and leaves, they might still offer some benefits for mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest 1 ounce of echinacea angustifolia roots with a sterile knife in early fall when plants are mature.
- Dry the harvested roots in a single layer at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours to preserve their properties.
- Grind 2 teaspoons of dried echinacea roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Mix the ground powder with 2 ounces of beeswax and 2 ounces of coconut oil in a double boiler at 60 degrees celsius for 30 minutes.
- Stir the mixture for 10 minutes and pour it into glass jars for storage and later use.
4. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area. By applying a topical cream, these beneficial compounds can directly reach the mouth ulcers, providing quick relief from pain and discomfort.
Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties help to keep the mouth tissues hydrated, further aiding in the healing process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with mouth ulcers.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate inflammation and reduce pain associated with mouth ulcers by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and protect the oral mucosa, reducing the risk of infection and promoting healing of mouth ulcers.
- Coumarins: These phenolic compounds have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce the severity of mouth ulcers by preventing bacterial growth and minimizing tissue damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for mouth ulcers.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make creams for mouth ulcers because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make creams for mouth ulcers because they also contain glycyrrhizin, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make creams for mouth ulcers because they contain glycosides that have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, providing relief from mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for mouth ulcers.
- Steep 50 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in 1000 milliliters of hot water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the herbal liquid.
- Combine 50 grams of beeswax with 50 grams of coconut oil and 20 grams of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler over low heat for 15 minutes to melt the beeswax.
- Mix the herbal liquid with the melted beeswax mixture and 10 milliliters of vitamin e oil to create the cream.
5. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The menthol content in peppermint creams provides a cooling sensation that numbs the pain and reduces inflammation in the affected area. This helps to promote healing and reduce discomfort.
Additionally, peppermint's antimicrobial properties can help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the development of mouth ulcers, allowing the body to heal faster.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with mouth ulcers.
- Menthol: It helps to numb the affected area, reducing the pain associated with mouth ulcers.
- Rosmarinic acid: It exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help in reducing the severity and duration of mouth ulcers.
- Limonene: It has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent infections and promote wound healing in mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: They are often used to make creams for mouth ulcers due to their high menthol content, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Their essential oils also exhibit antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent infection and promote healing in mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: The antioxidant properties of the essential oils present in leaves can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting the overall healing process of mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for mouth ulcers.
- Combine 25g of dried mentha x piperita leaves with 250ml of carrier oil in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container, discarding the solids.
- Mix 15g of beeswax with 20g of shea butter in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the infused oil to the beeswax mixture, stirring until a smooth consistency is achieved.
6. Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, creams helps with mouth ulcers because of its soothing and protective properties.
The bark of the Ulmus rubra tree contains mucilages, which form a protective barrier on the affected area, reducing inflammation and discomfort. The anti-inflammatory properties of Ulmus rubra cream also help to speed up the healing process, while its soothing action calms the pain and discomfort associated with mouth ulcers.
This natural remedy provides relief and promotes faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra creams that help with mouth ulcers.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help with mouth ulcers by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Ulmus rubra creams may help alleviate mouth ulcers by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause infections and exacerbate mouth ulcer symptoms.
- Tannins: Tannins in Ulmus rubra creams may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster healing of mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make creams for mouth ulcers.
- Barks: The bark of Ulmus rubra is used due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and heal mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with mouth ulcers.
- Buds: The buds of Ulmus rubra are used due to their ability to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation, making them beneficial for mouth ulcer creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest 100g of ulmus rubra leaves and 50g of its bark under the full moon for maximum potency.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm oven at 50c for 2 hours to preserve its properties.
- Infuse the dried ulmus rubra in 500ml of carrier oil for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the herbal extract.
- Mix the herbal extract with beeswax and a preservative in a 3:1:1 ratio and whip until smooth.
7. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with mouth ulcers because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound, curcumin, has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the oral cavity. Curcumin's ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and molecules helps to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with mouth ulcers, allowing for faster recovery and reduced risk of complications.
This natural remedy provides a safe and effective solution for soothing and healing mouth ulcers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with mouth ulcers.
- Curcumin: Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healing of mouth ulcers.
- Turmerones: Turmerones have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce bacterial growth and inflammation in the mouth, promoting the healing of ulcers.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the mouth, promoting the healing of ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for mouth ulcers.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used due to their high concentration of curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that aid in healing mouth ulcers.
- Roots: Roots of Curcuma longa are used in creams due to their store of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation in mouth ulcers.
- Stems: Stems of Curcuma longa contain a high amount of curcumin, which is often used in creams for mouth ulcers to provide relief from pain and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest 100g of dried curcuma longa rhizomes from a trusted source for their medicinal properties.
- Grind the dried rhizomes into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 50g of the ground powder with 200g of a carrier oil such as coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Stir the mixture for 10 minutes and then heat it gently for 30 minutes to facilitate absorption.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and bottle the resulting herbal cream for storage purposes.
8. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers. By applying a ginger cream to the affected area, it can help to reduce discomfort and promote healing.
The cream's cooling and calming effect can also provide relief from the pain and discomfort of mouth ulcers, making it a popular natural remedy for this common issue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with mouth ulcers.
- Gingerols: These iridoid compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols also possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, contributing to the relief of mouth ulcer symptoms.
- Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial properties, which may help prevent bacterial infections that can exacerbate mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for mouth ulcers.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of ginger in mouth ulcer creams due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: Ginger roots are also used in mouth ulcer creams due to their ability to reduce pain and inflammation, making them a popular natural remedy for soothing mouth ulcers.
- Barks: Ginger barks, although less commonly used, are sometimes employed in mouth ulcer creams for their antimicrobial properties, which help prevent infection and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for mouth ulcers.
- Extract 3 grams of dried zingiber officinale root in a 2-ounce glass jar with 4 ounces of 80-proof vodka for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids after 2 weeks of infusion.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Combine the strained liquid with 2 tablespoons of shea butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan over low heat.
- Whip the mixture with a hand mixer for 5 minutes until it thickens and forms a smooth cream.
9. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with mouth ulcers because of its antimicrobial properties, which combat the bacteria and viruses that cause the ulcers.
The cream's anti-inflammatory properties also reduce swelling and pain, allowing the ulcers to heal faster. Additionally, tea tree oil's antiseptic properties prevent the ulcers from becoming infected, promoting a quick recovery.
The cream's soothing and cooling effect also provides relief from the discomfort and pain associated with mouth ulcers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with mouth ulcers.
- Cineole: This terpene helps reduce inflammation and soothe pain associated with mouth ulcers.
- Cymene: As an antimicrobial compound, it helps prevent bacterial and fungal infections that can exacerbate mouth ulcers.
- Linalool: This terpene exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, promoting wound healing and reducing the risk of infection in mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: Rich in tea tree oil, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and heal mouth ulcers.
- Buds: Also contain tea tree oil, contributing to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that aid in mouth ulcer treatment.
- Stems: May be used as a source of tea tree oil, which is used in creams to alleviate pain and promote healing of mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest 5 tablespoons of melaleuca alternifolia leaves and flowers from mature plants at peak oil production time.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
- Steep 1 cup of dried plant material in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at 100 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil and discard the solids then add 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil and 1 teaspoon of beeswax.
- Blend the mixture in a double boiler at 180 degrees fahrenheit until the beeswax is fully incorporated and the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.
10. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area. By reducing pain and discomfort, chamomile creams allow the mouth ulcer to heal faster and more effectively. Additionally, chamomile's antimicrobial properties help prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for the ulcer to recover.
This natural remedy provides relief and promotes oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with mouth ulcers.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, which helps reduce pain and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers.
- Chamazulene: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and protect the affected area, promoting faster healing of mouth ulcers.
- Alpha-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation, prevent infection, and promote the healing of mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for mouth ulcers.
- Flowers: The flowers of Matricaria chamomilla are used to make creams for mouth ulcers because of their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Seeds: The seeds of Matricaria chamomilla are used to make creams for mouth ulcers because they contain compounds that can reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Leaves: The leaves of Matricaria chamomilla are used to make creams for mouth ulcers because of their antimicrobial properties that can help prevent infection and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest 20 fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers on a dry morning to ensure highest quality.
- Dry the harvested flowers for 2 weeks in a warm dark room to remove excess moisture.
- Steep 2 tablespoons of dried flowers in 2 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes to create tea.
- Mix 1 cup of cold cream with 2 tablespoons of matricaria chamomilla tea and 2 teaspoons of beeswax to combine ingredients.
- Heat the cream mixture in a double boiler for 10 minutes to melt beeswax and create a smooth consistency.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for mouth ulcers?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with mouth ulcers is a blend of aloe vera, calendula, and peppermint.
Aloe vera soothes and calms the affected area, reducing inflammation and pain. Calendula accelerates the healing process by promoting tissue repair and regeneration.
Meanwhile, peppermint provides a cooling sensation and helps to reduce discomfort. By applying a combination of these creams, you can effectively alleviate the symptoms of mouth ulcers and promote quick recovery.
Regular use can also prevent future occurrences.
What ailments similar to mouth ulcers are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to mouth ulcers that are treated with herbal creams are skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis.
These creams often contain soothing herbs like aloe vera, chamomile, and tea tree oil, which help calm inflammation, reduce redness, and promote healing.
Additionally, herbal creams may be used to treat burns, wounds, and minor cuts, providing relief from discomfort and promoting tissue repair.