Home Remedies to Heal Cold Sores Fast

Cold sores can be extremely painful and annoying. In today's article we look at several natural ways of healing them

Cold sores are an outbreak caused by the Herpes simplex type 1 virus, which we generally get through kissing and close contact with a person who has an active outbreak. Once infected with the herpes virus, it remains in the body for life. Outbreaks can be triggered by fever, infection, stress, sunburn and food allergies. So is there any way to heal cold sores effectively and quickly?

According to information from the web portal, MedLine Plus, almost everyone has contracted the herpes virus by the time they reach adulthood. The outbreak generally occurs in five phases: tingling, blistering, draining, crusting and healing. The last phase is the most contagious, when the blister bursts and the fluid drains.

Of course it’s best  to stop outbreaks before they occur during the first phase. However, if it’s already blistering, there are lots of home remedies that can help you fight this problem and heal cold sores quickly.

Cover your cold sore

Many people make the mistake of covering the cold sore with makeup. However, this may slow the healing and prolong the blister. Instead of using makeup, you should apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to keep it safe from bacteria and, in this way, speed up the healing process. Also, try to wear sunscreen when you’re outside to prevent further damage.

Lip balm

There are many balms on the market containing docosanol, which acclerates the healing process. If you’re exposed to wind or live in an arid climate, use a lip balm to prevent blisters from forming.

Foods that help to heal cold sores

There are certain foods that contain an amino acid called lysine, which can help fight cold sores. Foods like milk, fish, meat and legumes all contain lysine. On the other hand, foods that contain an amino acid called arginine can actually be favorable to the virus. Chocolate, peanuts, dried fruits, and almonds all contain arginine.

Black tea

If you already have a cold sore, place a black tea bag directly on the sore and then rub gently for several minutes. This remedy reduces pain and helps the blister heal.

Garlic

Garlic is famous for its antimicrobial properties that fight a large number of viruses. To help to heal cold sores, cut a clove of garlic in half and place directly on the outbreak.

Milk

Milk, as we mentioned earlier, contains lysine, an amino acid that speeds the healing of cold sores. Simply submerge a cotton ball in milk and then apply directly to the cold sore. It is best to use this remedy at the first signs of an outbreak.

Tomatoes and aloe vera

For daily cleansing, apply tomato juice for a few minutes followed by aloe vera.  Aloe contains many ingredients that are very healthy for the skin and can quickly help dry up a blister.

Limes

Limes possess antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help heal cold sores. To receive their benefits, simply apply a few drops of the juice directly onto the affected area three times a day.

Honey and vinegar

Both honey and vinegar possess antiviral properties that help to heal cold sores. Mix a tablespoon of honey with a little vinegar and apply directly to the sore with a cotton ball.

Prevention and care

It’s very important to dispose of toothbrushes, towels or any items that have come into contact with an active cold sore. It’s likely that they are contaminated with the virus and later use could cause new blisters. If possible, avoid reusing cups, forks or other dirty items. Keep hand sanitizer available to clean hands and eliminate bacteria and viruses.