How Does Hydrogen Peroxide Work?

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an oxidizing agent that exerts its effects on viruses and bacteria by disrupting their proteins and cell membranes. This makes it an effective disinfectant when applied at low concentrations (3-9%) on minor skin injuries. The H2O2 breaks down to become oxygen and water, which results in the foaming once it is applied to a wound.

How Does Hydrogen Peroxide Help Get Rid of a Canker Sore?

Even though canker sores are not caused by a virus or bacteria, the ulcer bed is a breeding ground for microorganisms. When they are allowed to multiply, it makes it harder for your immune system to heal the ulcer. So, it is important to keep your mouth clean by rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash which could significantly shorten the healing time.

Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash Recipe

Making a hydrogen peroxide mouthwash is easy. Simply mix 2 parts water to 1 part H2O2. 

• ½ cup of water
• ¼ cup hydrogen peroxide
• Gargle with the hydrogen hydroxide mix for 60 seconds and spit out

Hydrogen peroxide mouthwash is a popular choice because most of us have some in our medicine cabinet. It's best to start using it the moment you notice tingling or any sign of a canker sore. Some people dislike the taste and smell of hydrogen peroxide. However, this is a good choice when your canker sore appears in the middle of the night and you have nothing else on hand. The good news is, if you don't like using hydrogen peroxide, there are other great tasting mouthwash options that are also effective such as ginger mouthwash or clove mouthwash.

Sandie Tran, Pharm.D.