How to Reduce Cold Sores Naturally

No cure exists for herpes simplex type I virus, which causes cold sores, but here are some natural ways to stimulate blisters to heal quickly.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• The amino acid L-lysine
• Antioxidant vitamins
• Zinc
• Vitamin C
• Echinacea and goldenseal
• Zinc
• Goldenseal
• Tea Tree Oils
• L-lysine
• Echinacea
• Vitamin C

1. Take supplements that inhibit viral growth at the first sign of an outbreak. Try 500 to 1,000 mg daily of the amino acid L-lysine. Antioxidant vitamins and 50 to 100 mg of zinc per day may also help.

2. Boost your immune system. Take echinacea and goldenseal and get 5,000 mg vitamin C daily. Get plenty of rest and reduce stress.

3. Treat the cold sore topically. Dab tea tree oil, a natural antiseptic, at either full or half strength directly on blisters several times a day.

4. Promote healing by avoiding foods that contain arginine, another amino acid that suppresses lysine; nuts, dairy products, meat, seeds, oats, peanuts and corn all contain arginine. Limit citrus and other acidic fruits because they can irritate blisters.

Tips & Warnings

• Over-the-counter preparations for topical use on cold sores are available.
• L-lysine also comes in a cream.
• Limit use of goldenseal to one week or less, and avoid it entirely if you are allergic to ragweed.
• Avoid things that can provoke outbreaks, like overexposure to wind and sun.
• See a doctor immediately if you think the infection has spread to your eyes.
• Cut back or divide up the daily dosage of vitamin C if it causes diarrhea.
• If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

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[kohuether]

on 5/21/2009 I also hear that lemon balm is effective.

[synchronicitys]

on 4/5/2009 Also a paste of baking soda with water helps heal quickly as well as reduce the "tingle"Great article!

[Rockney]

on 12/1/2008 Great article on cold sores!

[Temcat]

on 11/25/2008 Good article. Another way to reduce cold sores is to use Aloe Vera cream. It will dry it up fast.

[alexandriaR]

on 1/14/2008 Check out LicoriceBHT.com it has a compilation of articles . Herpecin-L and Lysine are a cover, Ear wax is Insane. Rubbing alcohol is for sadists.. Licorice root or the GA extract from it (Vitamin shop) and BHT a food preservative wil KILL the dormant cell and STOP th eoutbreaks.