Cold sores are a kind of infection that are characterized by the appearance of blisters or red outbreaks on the surface of your lips.
Also known as herpes labialis, they are the result of an attack of the herpes simplex virus type 1. This is an easily transmitted virus.
Those who suffer from it first experience a sensation of itching and tingling in the affected area. Later, the rash appears. Sometimes, it comes with episodes of fever and allergies.
Fortunately, this doesn’t present a severe problem. It usually disappears in a few days. The wisest thing to do is to treat it as soon as possible so that you don’t cause complications.
This allows the blister to dry before the liquid drains. This also reduces the risk of transmitting it to other people.
Fortunately, there are several natural treatments for cold sores. When they’re applied externally, they help to accelerate your recuperation without causing undesired reactions.
7 Effective Home Remedies for Cold Sores
In the following article, we’re going to share the seven best ones. Try them!
1. Cold milk
Milk has a substance known as lysine. After being absorbed into your skin, it inhibits the work of the virus that causes herpes.
Using it externally regulates your skin’s pH level. It also lets your skin breathe in areas affected with the blisters.
How do you use it?
- Soak a piece of cotton with cold milk and rub it on the sores.
- Let it work without rinsing.
- Repeat the treatment two or three times per day.
2. Tomatoes
The antioxidants found in tomatoes are ideal for stimulating cellular regeneration in the areas affected by cold sores.
Its properties slow the growth of microorganisms. Plus, it calms irritation and the feeling of burning.
How do you use it?
- Take a little of the tomato’s pulp. Then, apply it on the blisters.
- Let it work for 30 minutes.
- Use this treatment two times per day until you’ve gotten rid of the problem.
3. Natural yogurt
The lactic acid that natural yogurt has is a substance that regulates the pH level of your lips. This prevents the growth of cold sores.
Its properties calm the itching. When facing an outbreak, it slows the infection.
How do you use it?
- When the first symptoms of cold sores appear, rub a little natural yogurt on the affected skin.
- If you have an outbreak, rub it directly on it and let it work without rinsing it off.
- Use this treatment three times per day to get good results.
4. Aloe vera
The antiviral and anti-fungal properties in aloe vera gel are very useful. They treat the infections caused by the herpes simplex virus in your skin.
Its natural active ingredients slow the appearance of breakouts. It also accelerates the repair of the affected areas.
How do you use it?
- Take out a little amount of fresh aloe vera gel. Then, rub it on your lips.
- Let it work for 30 minutes.
- Apply it three times per day.
5. Grapefruit seed extract
The grapefruit seed extract is a natural ingredient with antimycotic and antiviral properties. These can help slow the negative action of the herpes virus.
This extract has vitamin C, an essential nutrient that helps to repair damaged skin. At the same time, it creates a barrier against microorganisms.
How do you use it?
- Apply two drops of grapefruit seed extract on the cold sore outbreak.
- Let it work without rinsing off. Repeat this treatment two times per day.
6. Ice
Even though ice doesn’t attack the virus that’s causing the infection, its application can reduce the inflammation and feeling of tingling. These usually come before the outbreak.
How do you use it?
- Wrap several ice cubes in a bag or cloth and rub it on your lips.
- Repeat this treatment three times per day.
7. Sea salt
Sea salt is an ingredient with antiseptic and antiviral properties. These make it easier to treat this lip infection.
Applying them directly helps you to dry the outbreak. As a result, this prevents the virus from spreading.
How do you use it?
- Soak a small amount of sea salt with water or lemon juice. Then, rub it on the affected area.
- Let it work for 20 minutes before rinsing it off.
- Repeat the process two to three times per day.
To finish the treatment, remember that besides using these treatments, it’s important that you avoid sharing personal items like lipstick, razors, or towels.
Once the infection is gone, the wisest thing to do is to throw out these things to prevent the outbreak from coming back.
Via: StepToHealth
