Cold sores (fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters on a raised, red area of skin. An estimated 30 percent of the population will suffer from fever blisters at one time or another, according to Colgate.com. While generally harmless, cold sores can be potentially deadly in people with immunodeficiency disorders. Cold sores can't be prevented or cured and must heal naturally. In the meantime, a number of home remedies can help minimize their discomfort.
Cold and Heat
Applying either ice or warm compresses to your cold sore may diminish discomfort, according to the Mayo Clinic. These painful blisters often develop on your inner lips, possibly inside your mouth. The National Institutes of Health suggests gargling with cool water or eating ice pops to ease soreness.
Tea Bags
Placing a warm, wet tea bag on the infected area every hour for a few minutes may provide relief. Your cold sore may crust over and vanish within a few days. Both black tea and green can potentially offer good results.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera contains a number of vitamins and minerals. It has been used throughout history to treat cuts and burns. It also protects the body against bacteria. Softly massaging aloe vera gel or oil onto fever blisters may provide temporary relief. Use of topical aloe vera is not associated with significant side effects, although it may be harmful if swallowed.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is purported to have anti-inflammatory properties that may speed up the healing of wounds. Gently rubbing witch hazel onto the blister may offer a brief respite from discomfort. Few side effects have been reported with applying witch hazel to the skin, but it may upset the stomach if swallowed.
Lemon Balm Extract
Lemon balm oil has traditionally been used in aromatherapy and in topical medications. Applying lemon balm extract to your cold sore may not only lessen symptoms, but expedite healing as well. The topical use of lemon balm may cause irritation. If swallowed, it may cause nausea or dizziness.
Lifestyle Factors
It's important to give your cold sore a chance to heal. This means avoiding the urge to squeeze, pick at or pinch the blister. Certain foods may aggravate fever blisters and should be avoided until they heal. These include spicy, salty and citrus items. You may also lower your chance of developing mouth sores by decreasing your stress levels through meditation or other relaxation methods.
