Cold sores are clusters of tiny blisters that appear on the lips, nose, chin or fingers. Their cause usually stems from the herpes simplex virus type-1 or HSV-1. Occasionally, the herpes virus that causes genital herpes, HSV type-2, may also cause cold sores.
Conventional treatments for cold sores may include antiviral medications. Individuals can also use home treatments such as herbal teas, tinctures and ointments. It is important to consult a health care professional before starting herbal therapy.
Pale Purple Coneflower
Pale purple coneflower, or Echinacea pallida, is a perennial herb with long, thin, droopy petals native to North America. Traditional healers use the roots to treat colds and flu, and the plant has immune stimulant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties.
A study published in the February 2010 issue of "Planta Medica" tested water/alcohol extracts and the pressed juice from aerial parts of the flower against viral cells in vitro. The extracts showed high levels of antiviral activity against HSV-1 and HSV-2. The pressed juice was even more effective, having the ability to protect cells from viral infection. This could benefit patients who get frequently recurring infections. Individuals should consult their doctors before using the herb to treat cold sores.
Brazilian Pine
Brazilian pine, or Araucaria angustifolia, is an evergreen conifer native to Brazil. Folk healers use different parts of the tree to treat rheumatism, kidney disorders, sexually transmitted diseases, muscle strains, respiratory tract infections, fatigue, anemia and shingles, which is a disease caused by the herpes zoster virus. The leaves are high in tannins and have astringent and antiviral properties.
A study in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" tested 22 leaf extracts for antiviral action. The study found that the extract containing proanthocyanidins, also known as condensed tannins, had the strongest effect against HSV-1, the virus predominately responsible for cold sore infections. Further studies are needed to confirm these results. Individuals should consult their doctors before using the tree to treat cold sores.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, is an aromatic herb in the mint family native to the Mediterranean. Folk healers use it to relieve flu, stomach spasms, indigestion, insomnia and high blood pressure. The leaves contain triterpenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols and volatile oils, and the plant has antispasmodic, antimicrobial and calming properties. Many volatile oils, especially from the mint family, are effective against viruses.
A study published in the September 2008 issue of "Phytomedicine" tested lemon balm volatile oil on herpes viruses in vitro. The study found that the oil was 98.8 percent effective against HSV-1 and 97.2 percent effective against HSV-2. The study also found that the oil affected the virus before the cells were infected, indicating that it may be useful in preventing recurring infections.
Further studies are needed to confirm these results and test the oil on humans. Individuals should consult their doctors before using the oil to treat cold sores.
References
- "Planta Medica"; Anti-herpetic Properties of Hydroalcoholic Extracts and Pressed Juice from Echinacea Pallida; S. Schneider et al.; February 2010
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology"; Antiviral Activity-Guided Fractionation from Araucaria Angustifolia Leaves Extract; AM Freitas et al.; December 2009
- "Phytomedicine"; Melissa Officinalis Oil Affects Infectivity of Enveloped Herpes Viruses; P Schnitzler et al.; September 2008
