How to get rid of cold sores naturally

Introduction to cold sores

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus. They are also often referred to as fever blisters. They are small blisters that usually appear in groups on the lip or around the mouth. The skin around the blister will also usually be sore, swollen and red. When the sore bursts or breaks a clear fluid will leak out of it, which will then turn into a scab after a few days.

It usually takes between a week and two weeks for a cold sore to heal completely. Instead of going out and buying medication and products from the pharmacy for getting rid of cold sores, there are many different home remedies that work just as well, are cheaper, and at time are even more effective than the store-bought treatments. However, it is best to check with a doctor to see what he or she recommends, and they will probably have a lot of good home remedies to recommend to the patient as well before prescribing other treatments. Home remedies

When a person has a cold sore it is of utmost importance to stop it from spreading any further. Therefore, it is very important to keep the hands away from it and to not touch the cold sore at all. If a person does pick at the sore, then they must wash their hands immediately after doing so.

A good way to treat cold sores is to apply ice bags to the sore in order to freeze the growth. Ice can reduce the itching and desensitize the area as well.

Lysine is also good for controlling the viruses, which is why people need to eat more foods that contain lysine when they have cold sores, such as dairy products and potatoes.

Tea tree essential oil is another excellent antiviral element and it can be used as a paste when combined with hazel. Lemon balm is also good to use for cold sores. Make an infusion by combining a cup of hot water and a teaspoon of the lemon balm herb. Let this mixture steep for 10 minutes and then dab some of the infusion on a cotton swab to apply on the cold sore. After you do this, strain and drink the rest of the mixture for added help for getting rid of the cold sore.

Echinacea is another powerful remedy. The tincture of this herb that is readily available is a very good treatment for cold sores in particular.

Coconut oil can also be used on cold sores. Put a few drops of it in order to decrease the itching and provide relief.