Cold sores are a version of the herpes simplex virus. This virus can lie dormant in your body for years and suddenly cause an outbreak. Outbreaks can be triggered by trauma, stress, sun exposure or during menstrual cycles. You may feel slight tingling or itching before the blister breaks out. However, once the blister has formed, it can cause pain and burning. There are some natural treatments that may help to cure this condition.
Zinc
Zinc is a natural herbal remedy that can be used to help heal a cold sore. Zinc topical ointments can be purchased at your local health food store and some pharmacies. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, using zinc topically on a cold sore helps to relieve the pain and discomfort and also prevent the lesions from recurring. However, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, taking large amounts of zinc--more than 200 mg a day--can cause nausea and even vomiting in severe cases.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm can also be a natural way to treat a cold sore. According to the University of Michigan, lemon balm contains antiviral properties, and this can help to heal the cold sore at a quicker pace. Lemon balm cream can be purchased at a health food store. The University of Michigan Health System reports that lemon balm can be applied anywhere from 2 to 4 times a day for up to 10 days to promote healing. After 10 days of treatment, you should see and feel a difference in your cold sore.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a natural treatment that can help to cure cold sore outbreaks. According to the University of Michigan Health system, echinacea has been used in traditional herbal medicine as a topical treatment for cold sores. Echinacea helps to promote the healing of cold sores and can reduce the time you actually suffer from the cold sore. Echinacea topical treatments can be purchased at most health food stores. However, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, echinacea can cause white blood cells levels to be lowered when taken for an extended period of time, and it can also interfere with some medications that are used to treat disorders of the immune system. It is important to talk with your physician before using this treatment if you are at risk of any of these complications.
