One clinical trial treated those with oral outbreaks with a topical zinc cream every 2 hours. In addition to other health benefits of consuming zinc, it has also been shown to help with cold sores. Those who do not get enough zinc from their diet can add a supplement to increase their levels. Zinc is a mineral that can be found in many foods such as legumes, seeds, and nuts. When wakame was investigated to see if it had similar effects on HSV-1 infections, it was found that it had inhibitory effects and was linked with an increased rate of healing.Ĭonsumption of seaweed also had a positive effect on the multiplication of T cells which are important for immune defenses ( 8). One study found that applying seaweed to human immune system cells in an in-vitro study resulted in increased antibody production ( 7). Wakame seaweed has been studied in Japan for its immune-boosting effects. Using olive leaf consistently may produce anti-HSV-1 activities to minimize viral replication ( 6). When studying the effects of the olive leaf on the HSV-1 virus, researchers found that applying extracts may help to prevent the virus entering cells. The leaves have antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal activities which can make them effective against cold sores. Leaves from olive trees and their extracts have been used in skincare, cooking, and as a natural health remedy. The lysine serum concentration seemed to directly correspond to a drop in the frequency of outbreaks, suggesting this amino acid can help treat outbreaks of cold sores ( 5). Yet another study found that those who received a supplement of L-lysine had fewer lesions. Those who received L-lysine treatment also had a significantly reduced healing time ( 4). One study found that it helped to reduce the frequency and severity of infections. The amino acid L-lysine can be taken orally or used topically to treat the virus. It also has antiviral effects and other healing properties ( 3). The results found that aloe vera gel did have an inhibitory effect and could be used topically to treat cold sores ( 2).įurther studies of the anatomy and characteristics of the aloe vera plant found that it does have anti-inflammatory actions and can have positive effects on the immune system. Many people grow it as a houseplant and like to keep it nearby to apply directly if they get burned while cooking.Ī study examined the effects of aloe vera on HSV-1 infections. The gel from aloe vera plants has been widely used as a natural remedy, especially to relieve the pain from burns. One study found that Melissa officinalis, the official name of the lemon balm plant, had an antiviral effect and may protect against infections that can lead to cold sores ( 1). It may also decrease the swelling and make the cold sore appear slightly smaller. Lemon balm is thought to have antiviral properties that can help to reduce the redness of a cold sore. Many of these home remedies for cold sores have been studied and the results documented in the scientific literature, while others are remedies passed down by word of mouth through generations. Taking vitamins to boost the immune system is also thought to help fight off the infection and heal faster. Rhubarb and sage have also been used to alleviate the symptoms, while lemon, in the form of tea or a compress, can be used too. Popular methods include using licorice root, which contains properties thought to be antiviral, or rubbing on a cornstarch paste. 12 Home Remedies for Cold SoresĪ variety of natural remedies can be used to ease the pain and discomfort of a cold sore. It's appearance will worsen and it will take longer to heal.
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