For such a small thing, a cold sore can be remarkably painful. Cold sores are small, clear blisters that usually happen on the edge of the lips, just inside the mouth.
The next time you get a cold sore and are looking for relief, here are some home remedies you can try.
Cold sores are usually best treated with something that has antiviral properties. Licorice root tea can be used as a mouthwash. Gently swish the tea around in your mouth the next time you get a cold sore and you should be able to speed up the time it takes to heal.
Lemon balm and St. John’s wort are good for killing the herpes virus, which can cause cold sores. Lemon balm contains a high concentration of polyphenols that could help to minimize herpes outbreaks. You can apply lemon balm or St. John’s wort topically as a cream. You can also apply lemon balm tea directly to the sore.
In general, you should also work towards strengthening your immune system if you get cold sores frequently. The stronger your immune system is, the better able you are to fend off the herpes virus.
Garlic and onions are two great immune boosters. So is echinacea. Echinacea actually contains a substance that help prevent collagen (found in skin and mucous membranes) from being broken down by bacterial and viral enzymes. The herb may also be able to heal cold sores more quickly. You can swish a half teaspoon of tincture in your mouth for a minute, repeating three times a day.
Chamomile is another excellent choice for healing sores that happen in the mucous membranes. The herb contains a substance called bisabolol that could help to heal sores due to its antimicrobial action.
One final thing to remember when it comes to cold sores: stay away from salty or acidic foods while a sore is healing. Salted snacks like chips and citrus fruits can further irritate cold sores and cause more pain