Cold sores, or fever blisters, may appear on the lips, mouth or gums. Medically known as herpes labialis, the herpes simplex virus type one causes the condition. Mayoclinic.com advises that cold sores cannot be prevented or cured but their duration may be reduced. Cold sores generally last about a week and do not require specific medical treatment. A variety of home and kitchen remedies may provide relief from the condition. Cold sores are contagious--spread through close contact with others. If a herpes simplex infection spreads to the eye, immediate medical attention is required.
Marigold and Olive Oil Treatment
Calendula flowers, also known as marigolds, have commonly been used to treat skin infections and minor wounds, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. A marigold and olive oil treatment can be created using common ingredients found in the kitchen and outdoors, suggests Marilyn Daniel's book "Kitchen Witchery: A Compendium of Oils, Unguents, Incense, Tinctures and Comestibles." About ½ cup of dried marigold flowers and 1 c. olive oil are allowed to steep for approximately two weeks. The treatment is then strained and refrigerated for up to one year. The treatment is applied to the cold sore as needed.
Cleansing and Ice Therapy
Cold sores should be gently washed with mild cleanser and water to decrease the risk of infection to other areas of the body, advises MedlinePlus. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water reduces pain and inflammation. Ice cubes provide temporary pain relief, and decrease swelling. Alternatively, a warm washcloth may also reduce pain. Wash cloths should be laundered in hot water after each use to avoid transmitting the infection.
Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly protects the cold sore while it heals, according to MotherNature.com. Patients suffering from cold sores are advised to apply the thick ointment with a clean cotton swab each time rather than an applicator or finger.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Cold Sore
- MedlinePlus: Herpes Labialis
- "Kitchen Witchery: A Compendium of Oils, Unguents, Incense, Tinctures and Comestibles": Marilyn Daniel: 2002.
- MedlinePlus: Calendula
- Mother Nature: Cold Sores: 17 Hints to Heal Herpes Simplex
