Cold sores appear as pockets of fluid-filled blisters beneath the surface of the skin, especially on the lips or around the mouth. They can crust over, break open, and ooze – lasting for around one week to 10 days. These days can be troublesome, but you may find relief in prescription medications, home remedies, and natural treatments.
Compounds that are antimicrobial (antiviral) and immune-boosting are often useful for treating cold sores. Some of these medications help limit the growth of the virus, while others prevent further spread. Some others also have the properties to decrease pain and discomfort and reduce the chance of new infections. Not every prescription works for every person, but a wide range of natural products and home remedies for cold sores may help ease symptoms and prevent future breakouts. These include;
Lemon balm
Also known as Melissa officinalis, lemon balm has potent antiviral properties that can help reduce the swelling and redness associated with a cold sore blister. Some studies also suggest that it may protect against future infections.
Choose a lip balm with at least 1 to 2 percent lemon balm. As an alternative, you can also use a compress made of a lemon balm infusion that usually provides similar benefits.
Take an aspirin
Besides offering pain and discomfort relief, research shows that 125 milligram tablet of aspirin per day can cut the time cold sore remains active by 40-50 percent. It may also aid or enhance the effect of other natural remedies.
Try a tea bag poultice
Apply a wet, cold tea bag to the cold sore blister or other areas where you expect the flare-up to occur. Keep it on for 8-10 minutes and repeat three or four times a day. It helps reduce the duration and severity of an active infection.
Teabags of Earl Grey seem to be the most effective at reducing symptoms and easing discomfort.
Sunscreen
When worn daily on the lips, sunscreen is not only helpful in protecting your lips while the cold sore is healing, but it also reduces future outbreaks.
Look for sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Don’t forget to apply it whenever you expect
Toss your toothbrush
Cold sores blisters are contagious and can quickly spread from one person to the other. Avoid worsening an outbreak by throwing out your toothbrush after the formation of blisters and again after their clearance.
Also avoid using any other products (such as a razor, lip balm or lipstick) that might have come into contact with the blisters.
Vanilla extract
The alcohol content in pure vanilla extract makes it hard for a cold sore virus to thrive and grow, which would lessen the severity of an outbreak. You can try dabbing on pure vanilla extract as soon as you feel the formation of a cold sore.
Take Vitamin B12 Supplement
Studies have shown that individuals who tend to get cold sores often also have low levels of vitamin B12. Its deficiency may cause a smooth tongue, weakness, tiredness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, and pale skin.
Taking a daily dose of B12 supplement might decrease your chances of developing cold sores. You can also get this vitamin from natural sources such as shellfish, eggs, crab, beef, and dairy, all of which are high in B12.
