While there are a number of OTC and prescription cold sore treatments available, trials have shown that they are of limited use and have about the same effect on cold sore symptoms as the natural cold sore remedy they were compared with. Combine that single fact with the cost and potential risk of side effects from medicines, it is no wonder that so many are attracted by the benefits of natural remedies.
Before discussing the different cold sore remedy options, remember to take some simple measures to avoid spreading the virus, both to other areas of your own body as well as other people. Most people contact the virus while in childhood by being kissed by adults, so if you have any symptoms at all you should avoid this. The virus is highly contagious and so wash your hands thoroughly, especially after touching a blister or lesion.
The first step for you as a cold sore sufferer is to boost your immune system. Herpes simplex virus lies dormant in the body for most of the time, only becoming reactivated when the body’s defenses become compromised. Often this coincides with a virus such as a cold or flu, but can also be triggered by stress, overtiredness or menstruation. Both Goldenseal and Echinacea help boost the immune system and can therefore be helpful to prevent so many occurrences of cold sore outbreaks.
Another popular supplement is L-lysine, which can help both reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks. This is an essential amino acid found naturally in some foodstuffs such as meat and dairy products and so changing diet can also help, while topical creams are also available, although it is not easily absorbed by the skin.
Another naturally occurring compound is vitamin C, which is found in high doses in oranges, kiwi fruit and red peppers. However, citrus fruit may not suit all sufferers as acidic food seem to trigger cold sores in some people. A good option if this applies to you is to try a dose of 200 to 500 mg of vitamin C with citrus bioflavonoids.
Other natural cold sore remedies include tea tree oil and lemon balm, while vitamin E and zinc have also been shown to reduce the inflammation and pain of cold sores.
