Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) has a history of traditional use by Native American peoples and herbalists for various oral health conditions, including canker sores (aphthous ulcers). Traditionally, bloodroot was applied as a poultice or mouth rinse to treat mouth sores, owing to its known antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The primary active compound, sanguinarine, has shown some activity against oral pathogens in laboratory settings, which may provide a mechanistic rationale for its use.

However, scientific studies specifically evaluating bloodroot for canker sores are very limited. A few oral care products (such as certain toothpastes and mouthwashes from the late 20th century) included bloodroot extract, but concerns about safety—including mucosal irritation and potential carcinogenicity with long-term use—led to a reduction in its use. Current clinical evidence for efficacy in treating canker sores is lacking, and no major clinical trials have confirmed its benefits for this condition. The traditional use and some in vitro antimicrobial effects support a low level of evidence, but the lack of rigorous human studies and the potential for adverse effects limit its recommendation.

In summary, while bloodroot’s use for canker sores is primarily supported by traditional practices and some mechanistic plausibility, high-quality scientific validation is absent, and concerns about safety exist.

More about Bloodroot
More about Canker Sores

Other ingredients used for Canker Sores

Other health conditions supported by Bloodroot

Products containing Bloodroot