16 Home Remedies for Cold Sores

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About 90 percent of adults worldwide test positive for the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which causes cold sores. The virus remains dormant for some, whereas about 40 percent of American adults have recurring cold sores throughout their lives. The virus cannot be cured, but there are many ways to reduce the frequency and severity of cold sore outbreaks.
Certain triggers and situations can promote an outbreak, so knowing and preventing these are important. Some key factors to watch out for are:

• Avoid foods rich in the amino acid arginine, such as chocolate, cola, beer, grains, chicken soup, gelatin, seeds, nuts and peas.
• Eat well and take care of yourself. Both physical and emotional stress can increase the potential of an outbreak.
• Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 when going outside. It’s best to wear it year round. Also use a lip moisturizer with sunscreen.
• Change your toothbrush after a cold sore outbreak. The virus can stay in your toothbrush and cause another infection.
• Get extra rest around the time of your menstruation, which has been linked to an increased risk of outbreaks.

Despite our best efforts, cold sores may still occur. A cold sore will usually heal within 4-10 days if left alone. These are some home remedies that can help move the process along.
1. Monolaurin
This is an antiviral supplement available in health food stores. A recommended dosage is to take a one gram capsule three times a day before meals.
2. Lysine
The amino acid lysine can counteract arginine, which is found in the foods mentioned above. Creams that contain lysine can be applied directly to an active cold sore. Oral lysine tablets are another option, with a recommended dosage of 500-1000 milligrams a day.
Lysine is also naturally found in cow’s milk. You can soak a cotton ball in 1 tablespoon of whole milk and press it against the cold sore for several minutes. Drinking whole milk will also provide you with lysine. Other food sources include fish, eggs, chicken and potatoes.
3. Petroleum Jelly
Try applying a dab of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, over a cold sore. It may not speed the healing process, but it can provide some soothing relief.
4. Witch Hazel
This helps to ease skin irritation. Witch hazel, or witch hazel hydrosol, is available as a liquid at many stores and pharmacies. Soak either a cotton ball or the end of a cotton swab in witch hazel and hold it against a cold sore for several minutes. This can be repeated twice a day.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe can help ease the pain of a cold sore. Its antibacterial properties will keep the sore clean and promote healing. You can buy a container of aloe vera gel, or grow your own plant at home. To get some fresh gel, cut one of the leaves off the plant and squeeze out the gel as if the leaf were a tube. Try keeping the gel chilled in the refrigerator to add an extra cooling sensation.
6. Zinc Oxide
In one study, participants who applied zinc oxide cream to cold sores saw increased healing compared to a placebo cream. It can be applied daily.
7. Vanilla
The 100 percent pure vanilla is best. Try to apply a few drops of vanilla as soon as you feel any initial tingles that signal a cold sore is developing.
8. Licorice Root
Natural licorice root has anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. You can mix 1 tablespoon of licorice root powder or extract with a few drops of water to make a paste, and apply directly to a cold sore. It can be left on for several hours or overnight.
9. Hydrogen Peroxide
Although this may be the most unpleasant option, hydrogen peroxide acts as an excellent disinfectant. It will reduce the chance of a cold sore spreading as well as help the healing process. Soak a cotton ball in hydrogen peroxide and hold it against a cold sore. It will likely sting, but try to hold it there for at least a few seconds. Leave the area to disinfect for 5 minutes, then rinse it off.
10. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antiviral, antifungal, antiseptic and antibiotic properties. It can also dry out a cold sore, which aids the healing process. You can dab a couple drops on a cold sore, although avoid getting it in your mouth as it is toxic when consumed.
11. Echinacea
Echinacea is famous for strengthening your immune system, which will prevent cold sores. It can be consumed regularly in tablets, teas or extracts.
12. Vitamins E and C
Vitamin E is available as an oil and can be applied directly to the skin to relieve pain and reduce scarring. Vitamin C boosts white blood cell counts and helps to fight an infection, even if it’s viral. Both vitamins are best consumed in food. Try stocking up on fresh fruits and vegetables full of vitamin C, and nuts, leafy greens, whole grains and avocados for vitamin E.
13. Cornstarch
Cornstarch helps to neutralize the acidity of a cold sore. The virus thrives in an acidic environment and cornstarch has a natural alkalizing action. To use, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with about the same amount of water to make a paste. Apply the paste directly on a cold sore. This can be good to do before bed, then wash off the cornstarch in the morning.
14. Ice
Holding an ice cube against a cold sore can help lessen the pain. You can either tough it out with a bare cube, or use an ice pack. Putting a dab of petroleum jelly on afterwards will keep bacteria out and prevent the area from getting too dry.
15. Sea Salt
You can put sea salt directly on an exterior cold sore, or use a salt water rinse for any sores inside your mouth. The minerals are thought to improve healing. Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of water and swish in your mouth for several minutes.
16. Propolis
This is an antioxidant-rich resin made by bees. It’s been shown to speed the healing of cold sores.