Cold sores may sound innocuous, but they actually are highly contagious oral sores that affect more than 80 percent of Americans, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. The Academy of General Dentistry and University of Maryland Medical Center concur with herbalists and practitioners of alternative medicine that aloe can relieve symptoms associated with cold sores. However, as all herbs can trigger side effects, you should consult with your health-care provider before using aloe.
Cold Sores
Cold sores, otherwise known as fever blisters, usually are caused by the herpes simplex 1 virus. They appear as blisters that typically target the lips but can also erupt on the roof of the mouth, gums, nostrils and eyelids. Once you contract the oral herpes virus, you have it for life and recurring eruptions will show up at exactly the same spot.
Identification
Aloe, or aloe vera, is a succulent perennial herb native to Africa. It bears spikes of yellow flowers and distinctive, fleshy, prickly leaves that contain a medicinal mucilage. Many commercial cosmetics, lotions and shaving creams contain the therapeutic herb, as it has a long history as a remedy for a variety of skin conditions.
Traditional Uses
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, "Aloe was one of the most frequently prescribed medicines throughout most of the 18th and 19th centuries and it remains one of the most commonly used herbs in the United States today." It became a first-aid favorite in the 1950s when researchers recognized its ability to heal burns as well as scrapes, wounds, acne and hemorrhoids.
An immune stimulant, laxative and anti-inflammatory, aloe also supports the absorption of nutrients through the digestive system and regulates blood sugar levels. This makes aloe a valuable remedy for health issues including diabetes, constipation, cancer, kidney stones and ulcers.
Cold Sore Benefits
Although the website Health911.com states that no cure exists for cold sores, aloe can reduce the severity and frequency of cold sore outbreaks. According to the book "Prescription for Natural Healing," aloe contains enzymes--carboxypeptidase and bradykininase--that relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Its anesthetic qualities also reduce swelling and pain associated with cold sores. Aloe gel accelerates the healing of cold sores because it increases the flow of oxygen to the cells.
Use
At the first sign of a cold sore, usually a tingling sensation, Health 911 recommends massaging gel from an aloe leaf directly on the affected area. Even if the cold sore has already erupted, an application of aloe gel four times daily can prevent the flare-up from spreading. While the University of Maryland Medical Center states that topical use of aloe is generally safe, occasionally skin rash may occur.
References
- "Prescription for Natural Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- Health 911: Cold Sores
- Academy of General Dentistry: Canker and Cold Sores
- University of Rochester Medical Center: Cold Sore Virus Might Play Role in Alzheimer's
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Aloe
