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
- Goldenseal
- Tea Tree Oils
- L-lysine
- Echinacea
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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.
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2
Boost your immune system. Take echinacea and goldenseal and make sure you get 5,000 mg vitamin C daily. Get plenty of rest and reduce stress.
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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.
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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.
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1
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.
