How to Treat Cold Sores: Home Remedies to Try

Cold sores are fluid-filled blisters on the mouth or nose that usually develop because of a viral infection. The virus that mainly causes it is the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV 1).

Once cold sores appear, they usually go away on their own, much like other viral illnesses. However, the sore-causing virus remains dormant in the same area. There is often another outbreak when the individual is stressed or ill. There is no permanent cure for cold sores but medication can relieve the symptoms. Try home remedies if you do not want to use medication. Here is a guide to some of the most commonly used home remedies for cold sores.

Home Remedies

Apply lemon balm cream on the blisters to promote healing. Lemon balm has antiviral properties that inhibit the virus. It also has the ability to soothe the pain and itching of the sores.
Taking lysine supplements or applying lysine ointment on the affected area can also control the spread and outbreak of cold sores. Lysine is usually found in foods like milk, red meat, eggs and cheese. This essential protein promotes the production of infection-fighting antibodies in the human body.
Propolis is another alternative treatment that prevents the entry of the virus into other healthy cells, thereby arresting the replication and spread of the virus. Propolis is a brownish substance used by bees in their hives. Natural products containing propolis are readily available at most health food stores.
Applying warm tea bags on your cold sores can reduce the swelling and soreness. This is because the tannic acid in tea has antiviral properties.
To speed up the healing of cold sores, dab salt on the affected areas. Salt is known to kill bacteria and viruses that cause infections.
Cold sore outbreaks are usually triggered when your immune system is weak, such as when you are ill or stressed. It is thus advisable to take vitamins and eat a well-balanced diet in order to strengthen the body's defense system against viral attacks.