Fever blisters, also called cold sores, oral herpes and herpes labialis, are a common mouth problem. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, or NIDCR, reports that 500,000 people develop them for the first time each year. Although most experience just one outbreak, NIDCR says 20 to 40 percent suffer recurrent outbreaks. Herbal remedies have attracted attention as a "natural" way to treat fever blisters. However, they do not replace conventional medical care for fever blisters or any other condition and people who use them should share this information with all health care providers.
Lemon Balm
In the 2007 edition of "Integrative Medicine," University of Wisconsin professor David Rakel, M.D. describes lemon balm, also known Melissa officinalis, as the "most common botanical used for herpes infections." Rakel says that, in one German study, application of lemon balm during their first outbreak of cold sores seemed to prevent recurrences. The University of Michigan Health System, or UMHS, cites two studies both of which support the conclusion that lemon balm reduces the duration and severity of cold sores. Overall, UMHS assigns lemon balm a rating of three out of three stars, reserved for remedies backed by "reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit." Patients who use lemon balm cream should choose brands that contain at least 1percent lemon balm and apply them two to five times per day for up to 10 days.
Licorice Root
Licorice root, also known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Rakel describes a study in which fever blister patients who applied tincture of licorice using a cotton swab or fingertips three times per day seemed to experience less pain and faster healing than those who did not. UMHS cites a study in which a synthetic version of licorice root, called teacarbenoxolone sodium, conferred similar benefits. Licorice root typically comes in the form of a gel, cream or liquid. Gel or cream can be applied directly to skin. Liquids that contain alcohol should be mixed with sweet almond oil or plain, non-irritating face cream prior to use.
Earl Grey Tea
Rakel says that tea, applied as damp tea bags, is a traditional folk remedy that works well and costs little. Rakel specifically recommends Earl Grey tea, but notes that other kinds of black and green teas also suffice. Tea contains catechins, naturally-occurring compounds that support the health of the immune system. Tea also functions as an astringent, temporarily quelling fever blister pain, itching, swelling and redness. Rakel says tea bags should be steeped in boiling water, allowed to cool then applied to the affected area for 20 minutes one to three times per day.
References
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General
- University of Michigan Health System: Cold Sores
- "Integrative Medicine"; David Rakel, M.D.; 2007
- "Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine, 7th Edition"; Klaus Wolff, M.D. et al.; 2008
