They can be embarrassing, contagious and painful. There are many home remedies that can be used to treat cold sores. We outline the top six most effective natural treatments. Cold sores can be caused by the virus Herpes Simplex Viral Type I (HSV-1), which can be contracted at any time in your life.

Did you know?

Most people contract it during childhood. The virus can remain dormant for years after being contracted. It can cause recurring cases for others. Canker sores can be found inside your mouth, while cold sores can be found outside your mouth. Cold sores can be found around your lips and are not in your mouth. Cold sores are most commonly caused by stress. Other factors that can cause cold sores include hormonal changes such as pregnancy and menstruation, excess alcohol consumption, nutritional deficiencies, and other illnesses.

Take note

Certain foods can either improve or worsen your condition.

• As soon as you feel the tingling sensations of a cold sore coming on, take a therapeutic dose L-lysine. For a period of 3 days, take 1500-2500 g per day.
• Licorice root is an effective remedy. It contains the active ingredient lisyrisic Acid, which inhibits viral growth. This should not be confused with licorice candy. You can either drink licorice tea, or take it as an addition to a tablet. 2 to 4 grams per day Tea bags typically contain around 2 grams. If you don’t like the flavor of licorice, then skip this recommendation.
• Make a lemon balm tea by adding 1 tablespoon to a cup of lemon balm to a cup of boiling water. This tea can be enjoyed as often as you wish. However, you should stop drinking it when you feel the cold sores coming on. Lemon balm powder is too processed and won’t provide the same benefits.
• Crushed garlic is wonderful, leave it for about 30 minutes on the sore.
• Canker-Rid is the number one homeopathic remedy for cold sores. It is the best natural treatment for mouth sores, canker sores, and mouth ulcers. It is made from Durham’s proprietary blend of bee products, which includes resin made from tree bark, leaves, nectar and wax, as well as bee bread.
• Propolis is rich in bioflavonoids and amino acids. It also acts as an infection protector. The liquid is very fluid and can stain. Honey was used to treat wounds in ancient times to fight bacteria. It makes sense that Durham’s CankerRid ointment, made from propolis, is the best natural treatment for cold sores. This is a better alternative to getting a prescription from your physician and is completely natural.
• Cold sores can be treated with tea tree oil. Essential oils can be irritating to the skin. Mix a few drops of tea oil with a teaspoon olive oil. Perform a skin test to ensure your skin is healthy. Apply the oil directly to the sore. It will dry the sore quickly and reduce healing time.

Remember

• Vitamin B deficiency can be a problem. Take a vitamin B supplement, eat foods rich, such as turkey, potatoes, brazil nuts and bananas, and kefir. Avoid chocolate and peanuts.
• It can be helpful to ice the area. The virus is not fond of cold and dry environments and prefers warm and humid environments.
• Focus on strengthening your immune system. To strengthen your immune system, eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals. You can also take herbs and supplements. Echinacea and Reishi mushrooms are powerful immune system boosters. Cold sores don’t require prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs. These remedies are far more effective. Give them a try and let us know what you think. We wish you the best in getting rid of those horrible cold sores.