Top 11 Home Remedies For Cold Sores

Cold sores are painful blisters which generally occur in the mouth along the gums or the roof of the mouth. They take the form of clusters. Cold sores are highly contagious and are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus 1 that can be contracted through infected saliva.

There is no cure for them and they go away on their own within 6-7 days. However you can try the following home remedies to ease the discomfort caused by cold sores.

Glycerine

Try and rub some glycerine over your cold sore. Glycerine has a soothing effect and also reduces the tenderness felt by cold sores. Alternately you can also rub petroleum jelly or an anaesthetic which has Benzocaine as its main ingredient.

Avoid Exposure To Sunlight

While the cold sores peak, stay indoors. Exposure to sunlight can cause them to exacerbate. If going out becomes unavoidable, wear a hat or lather a good sunscreen with an SPF of 30 and above. Protect your lips with a sun protecting lip balm.

Lysine

Lysine is a vital amino acid that is needed by the body as it prevents the herpes virus from replicating itself. Take Lysine in the form of milk, eggs and nuts. You can alternately take it as a supplement to prevent the onset of cold sores.

Ice Cubes

Rub and ice cube directly on the affected area. It soothes and numbs the site of the cold sore. Keep applying ice every 15 minutes or so.

Milk

Dip some cotton wool in milk and apply it on the cold sore. Milk has anti-bacterial properties that promote faster healing.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is known for its skin regenerating and disease fighting properties. Simply rub some Aloe Vera juice on your cold sores to get instant relief.

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Lemon Balm

Lemon balm has anti-viral properties. Studies have shown that application of lemon balm promotes healing of cold sores in just 5 days.

Don’t Pick The Blisters And Share Items Of Personal Hygiene

It is important to not pop the cold sores or blisters. They will eventually form scabs and heal on their own. Be sure not to share lipsticks, tooth brushes or make up items to prevent the spread of the infection. Throw old tooth brushes out to prevent an infection from recurring.

Red Grapes

Red grapes have a compound called as Resveratrol that has anti-viral, disease fighting properties. So load up on red grapes and include them as a part of your daily diet. You can also apply a Resveratrol cream topically to give relief.

Rhubarb And Sage Cream

Rhubarb and Sage cream has been found to be effective against a virulent strain of herpes simplex that is resistant to acyclovir, an anti viral drug. Just apply this locally on the sores 2-3 times a day.

OTC Painkillers

You can also try some OTC (Over the counter) painkillers like brufen and aspirin to get relief from pain caused by cold sores. It is wise to however consult your doctor first on the above remedies and do what he suggests. The effects of some herbal remedies are at best debatable so it is wise to bring it up with your doctor.