Home Remedies and Herbs for Herpes (Cold Sores)

Cold sores are the common name for an outbreak of the highly contagious Herpes Simplex Virus, HSV-1. They’re also called fever blisters, oral herpes simplex and herpes labialis. Cold sores are so common that it’s estimated up to 90% of the American population are infected with the virus however only 40% will ever have a visible outbreak. ^{2 3 4} Cold sores appear as small watery sores on the lips, nose, and sometimes on other regions of the face. These painful sores last about ten days to two weeks as the blisters open and then form a yellow scab as new skin grows below. ⁴ Cold sores and canker sores are entirely different. Cold sores appear on the outside of the mouth. Canker sores are inside, caused by a different virus and are not contagious.⁴

What Causes Herpes / Cold Sores?

There are two different herpes causes. Cold sores causes come from the oral virus HSV-1. It’s not to be confused with a different strain, HSV-2, which is genital herpes. Both forms are highly contagious and can be passed from one person to another by physical contact such as kissing, oral sex, sharing common toiletries, drinking glasses and even by finger touch. ^{1 2 3} It’s known that HSV-1 and HSV-2 are interchangeable and either strain can appear on the face or genitals, depending on the method of contact. Both viruses present the same symptoms and react much the same way. ^1 2 There is no cure for HSV-1 or 2. Once infected the virus may lie dormant for years only to resurface at unexpected times. It’s thought that a low immune system, weather changes, menstrual periods, fatigue, stress and other viral infections contribute to outbreaks. ^{1 3 4}

Herpes / Cold Sores Symptoms

People with first-time outbreaks of cold sores symptoms will notice a small sore that enlarges to the size of a dime within several days. The sore is itchy and burning, then blisters, releases water and finally crusts. This process is very painful to the touch and lasts for several weeks. ^{1 2} Other cold sores symptoms are: ^{1 2 3 4}

• Headache
• Fever
• Muscle cramps
• Sore throat
• Painful gums
• Swollen lymph nodes

Natural Remedies and Herbs for Herpes / Cold Sores

Although there is no cure for HSV-1, there are some effective cold sore natural remedies to speed healing and reduce discomfort from the sores.

• Tea Tree Oil - Tea tree oil has natural antiseptic qualities which act as a cold sore natural remedy. Several drops applied directly on the sore relieves pain.
• Garlic - Garlic also has antiseptic properties. Rubbing garlic on a cold sore helps disinfection and encourages healing.
• L-Lysine - L-Lysine is an amino acid that helps stop the growth of a cold sore. It can be taken internally in capsule form or bought as a topical cream to rub on the infected area.
• Salt - Salt is one of nature’s great natural healers for any open cut, wound or sore. Although it stings, applying salt directly on a cold sore speeds up drying and healing.
• Peroxide 3 - Hydrogen peroxide is found in most first aid kits because it is one of the best antibacterial and anti-infection agent known. Peroxide 3 should be wetted onto a sore with a cotton ball.
• Garlic Clove and Vanilla Extract - Vanilla extract has anti-inflammatory activity. Mixed with garlic, this is a proven remedy for controlling the spread and pain of cold sores. Ensure that “total” extract is used for best results.

References

1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cold-sore/basics/definition/con-20021310
2. http://umm.edu/health/medical/ency/articles/herpes-oral
3. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/herpes-simplex-virus
4. https://draxe.com/cold-sores/