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The labial herpes , also known as “hotness” or “fire” is caused by the virus herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) and causes blisters or skin lesions in the mouth that cause pain, burning and discomfort when eating or drinking. It is an easily transmitted virus that can be contracted if it comes into contact with the skin of the lips or with certain personal objects (glasses, cutlery, razors, towels, etc.) of the infected person. Once contracted, the virus remains in the body for life and cold sores appear intermittently through outbreaks that can be motivated by factors such as high fever , stress, hormonal alterations, having low defenses or being exposed to extreme temperatures.
In addition to the prescribed medical treatments, there are some home remedies that are very effective in fighting the virus that causes the infection and accelerating the healing of cold sores, as we will detail in this article.
Cold sore symptoms
Cold sore symptoms usually appear 1 to 3 weeks after being infected with the virus, and their severity can vary significantly from person to person. The most common in order of appearance are the following:
- Tingling, burning and tightness in the lips.
- Inflammation and redness of the affected lip area.
- Appearance of blisters with liquid inside, which will be expelled over the days until the lesions dry up and begin to crust over.
Although not as common, fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes can also occur.
10 home remedies for cold sores
Ice
Applying ice just to the area where the herpes is located when the first symptoms are experienced (tingling and tightness) helps reduce the temperature of the fever and prevent the virus from continuing to act. It is important to apply the ice wrapped in a cloth or towel for about 5 minutes and not do it directly on the skin, as it could cause burns.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera or aloe is excellent for regenerating damaged skin and helps it heal more quickly. In addition to this, it is a good home remedy for cold sores because it is healing and provides great relief from the burning sensation. A little aloe vera should be applied on the fever, which can be extracted from an aloe leaf directly or from a commercial lotion that is as pure as possible.
Garlic
Garlic is a food with natural antibiotic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, so it is no wonder that it is one of the most popular natural remedies for cold sores. The treatment consists of cutting a garlic in half and rubbing the blister with it for a few seconds. So that its strong smell is not a problem during the day, it is advisable to apply it at night or before showering.
Honey
Honey is another natural substance with antibiotic, antibacterial and disinfectant effects, as well as promoting skin healing and helping it to always stay well hydrated. A honey that is organic or pure from bees should be used and applied on herpes between 3 and 4 times a day.
Black tea
Once the cold sore blister has appeared, applying a freshly prepared black tea bag on it for about 5 to 10 minutes helps reduce discomfort and accelerates the healing of the lesion.
Milk
Milk has high levels of lysine, an amino acid that inhibits the action of another amino acid called arginine , which favors the development and appearance of cold sore outbreaks. A gauze should be moistened with a little cold milk and placed on the lesion 2 or 3 times a day from the first symptoms.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a nutrient that, used topically, can also heal cold sores faster. It stands out for the extreme hydration it offers and for being a good natural relaxant, which reduces discomfort. It is best to buy a lip balm that contains vitamin E and apply it 2-3 times a day.
Lemon
Lemon is an antiseptic, antiviral and highly disinfectant citrus fruit, three properties that allow to fight the infection caused by cold sores effectively. You should squeeze a lemon and apply a few drops of its juice on the damaged area about 3 times a day.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a medicinal plant famous for its antibiotic properties and, thanks to them, it helps the body fight viruses and bacteria that can affect your health. To use it as a home remedy for cold sores, you must prepare an infusion with it, soak a clean gauze and apply on the fever.
Calendula
Within the world of herbal medicine, there is calendula, another of the best medicinal herbs that can be used as a natural treatment for oral herpes. Relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and speeds healing. Similarly, the infusion should be applied by placing a moistened gauze on the lesion.
Foods that help heal cold sores
In addition to resorting to the above home remedies for cold sores, it is also possible to contribute to its healing by consuming certain foods. These are the ones that contain lysine , an amino acid that, as we have mentioned previously, allows us to fight the herpes simplex virus type 1. The foods richest in lysine are fish, meat, legumes and dairy products.
On the contrary, it is advisable to avoid the consumption of foods that contain arginine, another amino acid that, in this case, perpetuates and prolongs the virus in the body. As foods rich in arginine, nuts, chocolate, peas, beer and cola drinks stand out. Likewise, it is not advisable to consume very spicy, acidic, salty or very hot foods, as they can be irritating and aggravate the discomfort of cold sores.
Hello Readers, I am Nikki Bella a Psychology student. I have always been concerned about human behavior and the mental processes that lead us to act and think the way we do. My collaboration as an editor in the psychology area of Well Being Pole has allowed me to investigate further and expand my knowledge in the field of mental health; I have also acquired great knowledge about physical health and well-being, two fundamental bases that are directly related and are part of all mental health.