Can alum treat mouth ulcers?

Jul 01, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

The child has developed an ulcer in his/her mouth today. I remember that alum has detoxifying and anti-itch properties. Can this condition be treated with alum?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Guo Huijie
There are differing opinions regarding whether alum can effectively treat mouth ulcers. On one hand, alum is believed to possess anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, and astringent properties, which may help alleviate localized swelling and pain caused by mouth ulcers to some extent. For example, applying alum topically or using it as a mouth rinse may reduce bacterial levels and promote the healing of mouth ulcers. However, on the other hand, some believe that alum is not the preferred treatment for mouth ulcers. This is because the main component of alum is sulfate minerals, which have an acidic and astringent taste that may irritate the oral mucosa, worsen pain, or even enlarge the ulcerated area. Furthermore, treating mouth ulcers with alum may require combination with other medications, and its effectiveness can vary depending on individual differences. For the treatment of mouth ulcers, it is recommended to select appropriate medications and methods based on individual conditions and to proceed under the guidance of a physician.