Home Remedies for Sore Tongue
Home Therapies and Professional Interventions for Relieving Tongue Pain
Sore tongues can be a nuisance, but there are several home remedies that may provide relief and speed up the healing process. Here are some effective methods:
Salt and Baking Soda Rinse
Mixing 2 tablespoons of iodized salt with 2 tablespoons of baking soda in 2 cups of water creates a solution that can help maintain a healthy pH and promote healing. Swish this several times daily for a soothing effect[2]. Alternatively, swishing with just half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water 2–3 times a day can clean and soothe the sore[5].
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil, with its anti-inflammatory properties, can help reduce pain and swelling. Applying pure extra virgin coconut oil to the sore area soothes and moisturizes[1].
Aloe Vera and Baking Soda Rinse
Mixing 1 teaspoon baking soda with 2 tablespoons aloe vera juice and ½ cup warm water, then swishing for at least 10 seconds, helps ease pain and shorten healing time[3].
Herbal Teas
Tulsi green tea and chamomile tea can help reduce inflammation and provide a soothing feeling around affected areas[1].
Oral Hygiene and Lifestyle
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding toothpaste with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), managing stress through techniques like yoga, and rinsing mouth after meals can help keep the mouth clean and reduce irritation[1].
Medications and Treatments
If home remedies are not enough, over-the-counter topical products such as creams, ointments, pastes, or mouth rinses can help reduce pain and promote faster healing[4]. However, if sores are large or persistent, consultation with a healthcare professional is advisable for prescription treatments.
Potential Causes of Tongue Pain
Tongue pain can be caused by various factors, including mouth ulcers or canker sores, autoimmune disorders, infections, irritation or injury, nutritional deficiencies, allergic reactions, underlying medical conditions, and side effects of certain medications. Maintaining good oral hygiene, managing stress, and avoiding irritants can prevent many causes of tongue pain. If tongue pain persists beyond 1-2 weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Sore tongue: Causes, symptoms, and treatments. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sore-tongue/symptoms-causes/syc-20370364
[2] Healthline. (2021). Sore tongue: Causes, symptoms, and treatment. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/sore-tongue
[3] Medical News Today. (2021). Sore tongue: Causes, symptoms, and treatment. [online] Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324561
[4] WebMD. (2021). Tongue pain: Causes, symptoms, and treatments. [online] Available at: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/tongue-pain-causes-treatments
[5] Healthline. (2021). Salt water rinse for a sore throat: How to do it and when to avoid it. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/salt-water-rinse-for-sore-throat
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