Remedy for Canker Sores

Sometimes, in the winter, you might suffer from Canker Sores ~ the painful swellings that come on the inside of your mouth. I have a sure cure for it. At least it has always worked for us.

If you live in an area where Sumac grows (not poison sumac, which grows in bogs) and the plant makes the red bunches of Sumac "berries," go out right away and gather a few of them and hang them up to dry.

When the sores come, take one of the bunches, barely cover it with cold water and rub it with your hands until the water gets kind of red. Then strain out the water and drink it, swishing it around in your mouth. Within 2 days, your canker sores will be gone.

This is an American Indian remedy in my part of the country. It tastes very similar to lemonade if you add some sugar, but don't do THAT for your mouth sores.

With sugar added, we call is "Sumacaide."

Above you can see my little bunches of sumac berries hanging with what's left of our onions.