At Home Cold Sore Remedies To Try in 2023

What are Cold Sores?

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small and painful blisters that can form on the lips or around the mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is a highly contagious virus that can spread through direct contact with an infected person. Cold sores usually last for about a week and can be very uncomfortable.

At Home Remedies for Cold Sores

There are many at home remedies that you can try to help reduce the discomfort and speed up the healing process. Here are some of the most popular remedies for cold sores:

Ice Packs or Cold Compresses

Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling and provide relief from the pain. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a towel to avoid direct contact with the skin. Apply the ice pack for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and healing properties. Applying aloe vera gel directly onto the cold sore can help reduce swelling, redness, and discomfort. It can also help speed up the healing process.

Tea Bags

Applying a warm, damp tea bag directly onto the cold sore can help reduce swelling and provide relief from the pain. Black and green tea both contain tannins, which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help reduce the swelling and speed up the healing process.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a herb that has been used for centuries to treat cold sores. Applying a cream or ointment containing lemon balm directly onto the cold sore can help reduce swelling and provide relief from the pain. Additionally, it can help speed up the healing process.

L-Lysine

L-lysine is an essential amino acid that has been shown to help reduce the severity and frequency of cold sores. Taking an L-lysine supplement can help reduce the amount of time it takes for a cold sore to heal. Additionally, it can help reduce the chances of the virus coming back.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties that can help reduce swelling and provide relief from the pain. Applying coconut oil directly onto the cold sore several times a day can help speed up the healing process.

Garlic

Garlic is known for its anti-viral properties that can help reduce swelling and provide relief from the pain. Eating garlic every day can help reduce the chances of the virus coming back. Additionally, applying a garlic paste directly onto the cold sore can help speed up the healing process.

Preventing Cold Sores

Taking steps to prevent cold sores can help reduce the chances of getting the virus in the first place. Here are some tips to help prevent cold sores:

• Avoid direct contact with someone who has a cold sore.
• Do not share utensils, towels, or other items with someone who has a cold sore.
• Wash your hands frequently.
• Stay away from excessive stress.
• Avoid too much exposure to the sun.
• Eat a balanced diet and take a multivitamin.

Using the at home remedies and prevention tips listed above can help reduce the severity and frequency of cold sores. However, it is important to remember that cold sores are highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person. If you think you may have a cold sore, it is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.