Organic Lifestyle Magazine

Natural Remedies for Cold Sores

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Last updated on: June 3, 2015

Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are caused by outbreaks of the herpes simplex virus type 1. These small blisters usually form on the edge of the lips but can also form on the roof of the mouth, in the nose, on the face, or the chin. For immediate pain relief press an ice cube or a wet tea bag on the area. Spicy and high citrus foods can cause irritation and increased pain.

Alternative Treatments for Cold Sores

Lysine

Lysine is a natural remedy for cold sores that can be taken internally or used in a cream to be applied topically.  If taken internally, begin with 4 grams daily for the first four days followed by 500 mg three times a day for two weeks. Take lysine on an empty stomach. Lysine is an essential amino acid that inhibits the virus. Arginine is an amino acid that induces the growth of herpes simplex. Avoid foods with a higher ratio of arginine than lysine during an outbreak such as chocolate, cereal grains, nuts, seeds, and peanuts.

Licorice

Licorice is a natural remedy that can be eaten and/or licorice powder can be put directly on the lesions.

Vitamins

Vitamins A, C, and E, all known to aid in fighting viral infections, are believed to help with herpes outbreaks along with B complex, and zinc. Topical treatment with vitamin E oil is also a suggested natural remedy.

Herbs

A highly recommended natural remedy is a cream, Herpilyn, which contains allantoin from the comfrey plant and lemon balm. Herpilyn, which can be found in many health food stores and online, can be used at the first sign of infection, when itching or tingling is the only symptom.

Probiotics

Multiple studies over the years have shown 4 lactobacillus  acidophilus- bulgaricus tablets taken with milk 4 times a day result in dramatic improvement.  Today excellent probiotics such as Bio-K offer a non-dairy alternative.




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Michael Edwards

Michael Edwards

Owner at Organic Lifestyle Magazine
Michael Edwards is the founder, owner, editor-in-chief, and janitor for Organic Lifestyle Magazine. At age 17, Michael weighed more than 360 pounds. He suffered from allergies, frequent bouts of illness, and chronic, debilitating insomnia. Conventional medicine wasn’t working. While he restored his health through alternative medicine he studied natural health and became immersed in it.

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Michael Edwards
Michael Edwards