Cold sores are defined as small lesions, which are filled with fluid and appear on various parts of the body, especially near the lips. These lesions often form clusters. And when they break, they form a crust on the left over sore. This is mainly caused due to the infection by the herpes virus. Exposure to sun, fever, hormonal changes and stress are some of the important causes of the occurrence of the cold sores.
Cold sores are contagious diseases and get easily transmitted via physical contact or sharing razors or napkins. Besides disrupting the beauty, these also cause pain and discomfort.
Home Remedies for Cold Sores
Aloe vera gel is widely available and can be grown as a houseplant. While research connecting the plant to cold sores is limited, one showed that its anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects could have inhibitory effects.
Many people are attracted to using apple cider vinegar as a treatment because of its proposed ability to fight off bacteria, viruses, and other germs. Full-strength apple cider vinegar is too intense to use directly on a cold sore, though. It can seriously irritate your skin.
Be sure to dilute it before using, and then apply only once or twice per day.
If you like the way tea tree oil smells, it could be your cold sore remedy of choice. Although is limited, tea tree oil does seem to show some promise in fighting off the herpes simplex virus.
As with apple cider vinegar, you’ll want to dilute it before dabbing it on your skin.
Some studies have shown that people taking lysine were less likely to experience recurrences of cold sores, but the studies have limits. For example, no optimal dose or even particular type of preparation was recommended.
Also, more recent research suggests that using lysine won’t prevent the occurrence of a cold sore, but it doesn’t hurt to try.
This essential amino acid is available as an oral supplement or a cream.
It’s important to know that OTC oral supplements, including lysine, are poorly regulated by the FDA.
Before taking any oral supplement, you should first discuss it with your healthcare provider. Some supplements can be contaminated with active pharmaceuticals that may be harmful to you.