How to get rid of cold sores home remedies

Cold sores are an annoying and unsightly problem caused by the herpes simplex type I virus. Frequently appearing at the worst possible time attacks can be triggered by stress, illness and prolonged exposure to the sun. While there is no cure for the herpes attacks can be treated in a number of ways and the healing process given a helping hand. Antiviral medicines can be prescribed by your GP and there are a number of over the counter treatments that can be effective. There are also a number of home and alternative remedies that can prove to be equally effective in the treatment of cold sores. Some of these include:

Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has effective antiviral properties that make it ideal for the treatment of cold sores. Tests have been shown that it cuts the healing time of outbreaks by as much as half and regular application to affected areas helps to prevent further outbreaks.

Reishi
Reishi is derived from a mushroom traditionally used in Chinese medicine and is used to strengthen the immune system. Outbreaks of cold sores commonly appear when the body is fighting other illnesses such as cold and flu. It is available in pill or powder form and a daily dose has been found to inhibit the spread of the virus that causes cold sores.

Propolis
This is a substance gathered by bees and used in the construction of their hives. It is thought that it helps to keep the hives free of germs and disease. Collected from pine and conifer trees a form of propolis is available in health food shops. Numerous studies have shown that it is effective against the herpes type 1 virus. While it does not kill or remove it from the body it helps to prevent its spread and slows down replication.

Peppermint Oil
While the effects of essence of peppermint oil on the herpes virus are still being tested early results are promising. It appears that peppermint oil helps to return the virus to its dormant state and helps to prevent cold sores from forming.

Lysine
Lysine is an amino acid found in milk, red meat, fish and cheese. It is used by the body to strengthen the immune system and increase the production of anti-bodies and hormones that combat the herpes virus. Tests have shown that a lysine supplement taken several times a day can reduce the length of cold sore outbreaks and inhibit the spread of the virus.