Even though cold sores adopt the small form in appearance, the pain and twinge associated with these fluid-filled blisters could be immense to disrupt your everyday routine. And once you are open to the detrimental elements of this contagious virus, it may really be difficult for you to escape from the susceptibility to outbreaks. Although there are several medicines available across the counter, there’s always a possibility that the cold sores will attack you yet again through any possible route – be it menstruation, stress, sun exposure or fever. Now, that’s where natural remedies come to help you combat the blisters that are caused by the Herpes simplex 1 virus. Here, we are providing you with incalculably useful natural methods that won’t only treat your exasperating cold sores, but will also trim down its duration and intensity. Take a look:
1. Licorice
How it works?
Known for hundreds of decades, especially in Europe and China, Licorice root has been one of the most beneficial staple in healthcare. Infused with anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties, the herb contains an extremely potent main ingredient ‘glycyrrhizin’ which helps in preventing the symptoms of the Herpes simplex virus.
How to use?
If you are down with cold sores, you can consume Licorice by chewing down the whole sticks of the root. You could even use the herb root and prepare tea or take tablets. Besides this, the herb could be used in the form of Licorice powder and have it sprinkled on the sore. One may even apply the combination of a cream and a pinch of licorice powder with a splash of some pure vegetable shortening on their sore to alleviate the condition.
Do’s and Don’ts
Since Licorice’s main ingredient glycyrrhizin integrates the capability to increase blood pressure in some people, it is advisable to abstain from using the herb for prolonged periods of time. Also, consult your physician before starting the use of licorice root as a treatment.
2. Milk
How it works?
Another commendable home remedy that could be used to treat your cold sores is the raw whole milk. It has been believed for ages that using raw whole milk can capably soothe and heal up cold sores in a really short span of time. The beneficial aspects owe to the liquid’s integrated proteins known as immunoglobulin. The protein functions as antibody in the body and assists in combating and preventing the Herpes simplex. Besides this, I-lysine is another significant amino acid that is found in the raw whole milk which helps speed up the healing process and prevent the cold sore outbreaks.
How to use?
Immerse a ball of cotton in raw milk and apply it on your sores. The coldness in the milk not only reduces the sore redness, but also alleviates the stinging and tingling sensation.
Do’s and Don’ts
Considering the fact that raw whole milk has been considered as an incredibly effective home remedy to treat cold sores, one could even drink about two to three glasses of raw whole milk every day.
3. Ice packs or cold compress
How it works?
Ice packs can also be used as a reliable yet highly effective treatment for cold sores. The cold compress on the sore generally works by providing coolness to the affected area. The method helps lessen down the redness, swelling and pain at the same time. Using a cold compress on your cold sore will further counteract the heat in that area and thereby improve the condition.
How to use?
Take a towel or a piece of cloth, enclose an ice cube inside and apply it over the sore. If you feel the cold is quite tolerable, you can apply the ice cure directly to your cold sore. Keep the ice pack or cold compress on your sore for about 2 to 5 five minutes – this will eventually diminish the pain and render comfort to the painful blisters. You can take a break for about ten minutes and apply the pack again on your cold sores. Continue the process for about an hour.
Do’s and Don’ts
One can rely on this method when the sore has blown up or when it is still immature. Also, ensure the cloth you are using for an ice pack is clean enough.
4. Tea bag
How it works?
Tea bag could also be one of the most influential cold sores treatment methods. The tea bag remedy comes into effect by applying it over the sore for the recommended time. One can even try Earl Grey tea which embeds a powerful ingredient entitled as bergamot oil – that helps heal the cold sores.
How to use?
Use a tea bag which is thoroughly soaked and properly compressed out. Allow it to cool down and press it over the sore when it is comfortably warm. You can apply the tea bag as frequently as about up to half an hour per tea bag. You can use the method as soon as you feel the cold sore is about to appear as well as when it has erupted.
Do’s and Don’ts
Bring tea bag remedy into use once you feel the tingling sensation. Keeping the bag on the sore for about 30 minutes will further provide relief and improve the situation.