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.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

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

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.