Cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus, start as a tingling sensation on or around your lips. Within 24-48 hours, a fluid-filled blister appears on the skin’s surface.
Natural remedies for cold sores can provide temporary comfort and speed up healing by fighting off the herpes virus. Here are some effective home remedies that will keep those sores at bay!
Licorice root
Licorice root’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal natural treatment for cold sores. Not only does it reduce swelling and promote healing, but its antiviral properties allow your immune system to more effectively fight off herpes simplex virus infections.
According to a study from Hamadan University, this herb may help protect you against cold sores by inhibiting the growth of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) within your body.
However, large doses of licorice root can elevate levels of aldosterone, potentially leading to serious side effects like high blood pressure or heart issues. Consult your doctor about the right dosage for you.
Licorice root should not be consumed during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as too much licorice during this time can negatively impact your baby’s brain development and put them at greater risk for having children with learning disabilities in later life. Therefore, it is best to avoid its consumption during these times.
Petroleum jelly
Petroleum jelly is an emollient that can be used as a natural remedy for cold sores. It helps reduce inflammation and itching associated with these sores, thus speeding up their healing process.
Applying petroleum jelly to a cold sore and its surrounding skin can help minimize its appearance by relieving dryness, cracking, and itching.
Another natural remedy for cold sores is lemon balm. This herb helps to combat the herpes virus that causes cold sores, as well as providing comfort from the symptoms associated with infection.
Apply it externally only, as it contains some chemicals which could potentially be hazardous for human health. Nevertheless, it has long been recognized as an effective treatment for cold sores by those in the medical community and continues to be widely used today.
Milk
Milk is a widely-used natural remedy for cold sores due to its high content of lysine, an amino acid known to help combat the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
Reader’s Digest suggests that milk helps to alleviate symptoms and accelerate healing time for cold sores. Furthermore, it hydrates the skin, which could prevent cracking or turning into a scab.
Drinking a glass of milk daily not only helps heal cold sores, but it can also strengthen your immune health. This is especially essential if you have a weak immune system or frequently experience HSV outbreaks.
Another effective natural cure for cold sores is lemon balm gel applied directly onto the sore, which has antiviral and antioxidant properties that can expedite healing.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic that can help eliminate cold sores. Additionally, it reduces swelling and irritation.
Applying a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution directly on the affected area can aid healing and stop outbreaks. However, this only works properly if you apply it properly and do not rub the wound.
It is essential to be aware that rubbing alcohol, another common natural remedy for cold sores, may actually worsen their symptoms. Furthermore, it destroys cells needed for healing.
Echinacea tea
Echinacea is an herb that some claim can help reduce symptoms of colds and infections. It comes from a group of flowering plants that resemble daisies with pink or purple petals and a cone-shaped seed head.
Studies have demonstrated that drinking echinacea tea can help people suffering from the common cold feel better faster. It reduces inflammation in the body and enhances airflow in the lungs.
Additionally, it may help treat other inflammatory conditions like bronchitis and asthma by relieving swollen glands in the neck. Furthermore, it suppresses histamine – a hormone responsible for allergic reactions – an additional trigger.