Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are caused by HSV-I, a type of the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). They occur on the mouth, they tingle, cause redness, and are painful. Though there are antiviral medicines available for their cure, it is a well-known fact that antiviral medicines do not work once the cold sores erupt, and sadly, most people think of medicine after the cold sores have formed. So, here are some home remedies that can help you control the nuisance value caused by cold sores:
- Applying ice on the sores for a few minutes reduces pain and lessens the burning sensation. The ice application must be repeated every 60-70 minutes.
- Applying sunscreen on your lips can help prevent cold sores that result due to sunlight exposure.
- Many folks claim that applying licorice on cold sores actually stunts the cold sores’ progress. This is because licorice contains glycyrrhizin acid, which has been proven to help treat peptic ulcers. However, make sure the licorice you use is made from real licorice (use all-natural licorice) and does not contain chemicals. You can also apply licorice powder on the cold sores.
- Dunking a small piece of cotton into cold milk and applying it on the infected area is also known to help. Milk contains beneficial natural properties, and is a well-known cold sores repellent.
- Rubbing or pressing a used tea bag that is still warm can also help reduce cold sores. Tea contains tannic acid, which has anti-viral properties.
- Spreading aloe vera gel on the infected area is also known to help in getting rid of the cold sores.
- Eating vitamin-rich foods also helps. Increase your garlic intake. Eat lots of leafy vegetables and fruits.
Some Don’ts
Here are a couple of things you must not do or indulge in during a cold sores breakout:
- Avoid “fingering” your cold sores no matter how much they itch or how much you are fond of removing dead scabs from skin. Just avoid touching them, and when you are applying any home remedies on the infected area, make sure your hands are clean. Remember this: if you touch the cold sores area and then touch your eyes or genitals, you will pollinate your cold sores, and there will be more trouble. So, wash your hands after rubbing remedies on your sores.
- Avoid crispy, acidic and spicy food because it has the potential to aggravate the sores. Here is a small list of acidic foods whose intake should be restricted, though not completely avoided: chocolate, peanuts, coffee, seeds, meat, dairy products, nuts and whole wheat.
- Do not apply any cosmetic products on your cold sores. Cosmetics are rich in chemicals and will end up irritating your sores.