Cold sores are uncomfortable, itchy and painful blisters caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1). While there is no known cure, there are several home remedies for cold sores that can help reduce the symptoms.
As always, check with your medical provider before using any home remedy. This information is meant to be entertaining and informational for those interested in the subject of home remedies, not as medical advice or as a replacement for medical advice.
Salt Water Rinse
To alleviate itching and burning, try rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution. Simply mix one teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm distilled or boiled water. Use this solution to rinse your mouth four times a day. It’s a simple yet effective remedy that can provide relief.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties which can soothe cold sore pain and itchiness. Apply aloe veragel directly to the affected area. You can also drink aloe vera juice several times a day for relief.
Tea Bags
Black and green tea bags contain tannic acid, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation caused by cold sores. To use this remedy, steep two tea bags in boiling water for three minutes. Let them cool downand then place the bags on the affected area for 15 minutes.
Ice Cubes
Applying ice cubes to a cold sore can help reduce pain and swelling. You should wrap an ice cube in a clean cloth and apply it to the infected area every hour for 10 minutes at a time. Make sure not to put pressure on the sore while applying ice as this can further irritate the sore.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has antiviral properties which can help reduce swelling, itching and redness associated with cold sores. Apply a topical cream or ointment containing lemon balm directly to the affected area. You can also drink tea made with lemon balm leaves daily for relief from cold sore symptoms.
St Johns Wort
St John’s wort is an herb that has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a topical cream or ointment containing St Johns wort directly to the affected area. You can also take supplements containing St John’s wort orally to speed up the healing process.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a herb that has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Take echinacea supplements orally as directed by your doctor. You can also drink tea made with Echinacea leaves daily for relief from cold sore symptoms.
Chamomile
Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. You can apply a topical cream or ointment containing chamomile directly to the affected area for relief. You can also make a tea with chamomile flowers and drink it several times a day for added relief.
Vitamin C and Lysine
Vitamin C and lysine are essential nutrients that can help reduce the severity of cold sore outbreaks. Take vitamin C and lysine supplements orally as directed by your doctor. You can also increase your intake of these nutrients through foods such as citrus fruits, leafy greens, potatoes, red peppers, fish and eggs.
Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly can help soothe dryness and cracking caused by cold sores. Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the affected area several times a day. Make sure to wash and dry your hands before and after applying to avoid spreading the virus.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is an astringent that can help reduce swelling and itching associated with cold sores. Apply witch hazel directly to the affected area using a cotton swab or a clean finger. Allow the witch hazel to soak for a few minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Vitamin B-12 Supplementation
Vitamin B-12 is an essential nutrient for immune system health and can help reduce the frequency of cold sore outbreaks. Taking a B-12 supplement in the form of sublingual tablets or liquid drops can be beneficial. Additionally, adding food sources such as eggs, meat and dairy to your diet can also help increase B-12 intake.
Essential Oils
Essential oils such as tea tree, lavender and eucalyptus can help reduce swelling and redness associated with cold sores and have antiviral properties. Apply a few drops of one or more of these essential oils to the affected area to provide relief from symptoms. Additionally, adding a few drops of these essential oils to your bathwater can also be beneficial. It’s best to do a skin patch test before using any essential oil. While lavender oil is considered safe to use “neat”(directly on the skin) Other oils should be diluted in a carrier oil before use. Also, essential oils need to be stored in glass and away from sunlight and heat.
A simple recipe for essential oil remedy for cold sores- 10 drops of lavender essential oil, tea tree and eucalyptus
- 3 teaspoons fractionated coconut oil
- Glass bottle with dropper
Instructions:
- Combine the lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus and coconut oil in a glass bottle or jar with a dropper lid.
- Shake the mixture to combine before each use, then massage gently into the affected area. Repeat several times daily for the best results
Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications may be effective in treating the discomfort associated with cold sores. Pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help relieve soreness, itching and burning. Medications containing benzocaine or docosanol can also help numb the area and reduce pain. These medications should only be used as directed on the package label.
Life Style Changes
In addition to topical treatments and herbal remedies, making some lifestyle changes can also help reduce the risk of cold sores. For example, getting adequate sleep, eating a healthy diet and limiting alcohol intake can help boost your immune system and reduce stress levels which in turn can help prevent or minimize outbreaks. Additionally, avoiding kissing or sharing utensils with someone who has an active cold sore can help prevent the spread of infection.
It’s also important to practice good hygiene and keep your hands clean. Lastly, it’s best to avoid touching or picking at a cold sore as this can cause it to become worse and delay healing time.
If you find that lifestyle changes alone are not helping to reduce your outbreaks, talk to your doctor about prescription medications. It’s also important to note that certain medications can interfere with these treatments, so be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new medications. Additionally, you should always follow the directions on any medication as directed and not exceed recommended doses.
Conclusion
Overall, cold sores are very common and can cause a great deal of discomfort if left untreated. Thankfully, there are a variety of treatments available to help reduce symptoms and speed up healing time. By following the advice outlined above, you can find relief from cold sore symptoms in no time!
If you find that your condition is not improving and persists for more than two weeks, it’s best to consult with your doctor for further treatment options. It’s also important to practice good hygiene and avoid kissing or sharing utensils with someone who has an active cold sore. With the right treatment plan, you can find relief from cold sores in no time!
In addition to medical treatments, it’s important to make lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of outbreaks. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and limiting alcohol consumption are all helpful steps to take when looking to reduce your risk of developing cold sores. Taking good care of your skin and protecting it from the sun can also help prevent future outbreaks.
By taking all these measures, you can keep your cold sore symptoms at bay and maintain a healthy lifestyle!
For more home remedies click here.
For home remedies for bug bites click here.
For information on the medicinal properties of herbs click here
For information on the medicinal properties of chamomile click here
For information on the medicinal properties of Echinacea click here