Cold sores, also known as fever blisters are caused by the herpes simplex virus type one infection. MayoClinic.com reports that these blisters are typically found around the mouth or on the lips and are red and painful.There is no cure or ways to prevent cold sores, but there are steps to take to lessen the duration of the cold sore. These remedies are not medical proven to work and a person should always consult their doctor before applying or ingesting any supplement.
Natural Products
Rubbing the sore with ice for 3 to 8 minutes every few hours can help relieve pain and may help reduce the duration of the cold sore, reports Natural Home Remedies. When ice is applied when symptoms first begin to appear, the ice can slow down the progression of the cold sore and prevent it from spreading and becoming larger. Aloe, lemon balm extract, vitamin E oil and tea bags can also be applied to the cold sore to relieve pain and reduce redness and swelling. Petroleum jelly is also an effective and inexpensive remedy to heal cold sores.
Nutrition
Cold sores often develop when a person's immune system is weak. Eating foods that are healthy and contain vitamin C can help keep the immune system healthy and able to fight off viruses, such as cold sores. According to Natural Home Remedies, the amount of caffeine a person drinks is said to increase the chance of developing cold sores, so limit coffee, teas and sodas. Consuming plain, yogurt with live active cultures can boost the immune system and can help prevent cold sore from developing. Warm yogurt will not work because the heat will kill the live active cultures.
Supplements
Taking 200 to 500mg of vitamin C with 200 to 500mg of citrus bioflavonoids three times a day can help heal the cold sore, reports Natural Home Remedies. A person should always consult their doctor before taking vitamin C and citrus bioflavonoids. Zinc can also be used to reduce the duration of the cold sore when applied directly to the cold sore. Oral supplements of zinc can be taken to allow the cold sore to heal faster. Consult a doctor before using zinc. According to Health 911, people who develop cold sores often should take 1,500 to 3,000 mg. of lysine a day to prevent cold sores. When a cold sore has already developed, take 3,000 mg of lysine each day until the sore has crusted over. Always consult a doctor before taking lysine.
