Home Remedies for Lip Fever Blister

Fever blisters, which are also known as cold sores, are among the most common oral disorders within America, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. The cause of fever blisters is the herpes simplex virus. While there are two types of herpes simplex, type 1 herpes simplex causes 95 percent outbreaks of fever blisters. There is no cure for fever blisters; however home remedies can help shorten the duration of an outbreak.

Grapefruit Seed Extract and Aloe

• Grapefruit seed extract can be used as an internal and topical treatment for various bacteria and viral infections due to its ability to naturally detoxify and support the immune system, according to Vanderbilt University. By applying this extract directly onto a fever blister, its high level of antioxidants will begin to fight off the visual symptoms of herpes simplex virus, which may shorten the duration of a fever blister outbreak.

  Aloe Vera is a common home remedy for various skin conditions, which mainly include sunburns and rashes. The two main compounds within aloe are polysaccharides and glycoproteins, both of which work to stimulate and repair skin cells as well as support the function of the immune system, according to the University of Maryland.

  To utilize this remedy, combine 2 drops of grapefruit seed extract with 1 tsp. of pure aloe and mix. Apply this mixture directly to the fever blister up to 3 times per day until the sore has vanished.

Lemon Balm

• Traditionally lemon balm has been used to treat insomnia, intestinal issues as well as for cardiovascular problems. The University of Michigan Health System has found the topical application of lemon balm for fever blisters, or cold sores, is scientifically proven to help reduce the duration and severity of an outbreak. The main active compound within this herb is flavonoids, which expedite the healing process for oral herpes simplex virus. To apply lemon balm, purchase topical extract that has a high concentration of flavonoids, which is available at any health food store, and apply directly to the sore three to four times per day until the fever blister has disappeared.

Witch Hazel Extract

• The use of witch hazel for skin conditions dates back to Native Americans, where they commonly used the leaves as a poultice to treat wounds, hemorrhoids as well as skin ulcers, according to the University of Michigan. The active compounds within witch hazel are volatile oils as well as tannins. Both of these compounds contain a powerful astringent effect, which when used topically can dry out sores and reduce inflammation, according to the University of Michigan. When this remedy is applied to the skin, it works to dry out the fever blister, which may reduce the duration of the outbreak. Purchase a cream or ointment version of witch hazel with a concentration of at least 2 percent bark extract. Apply a generous amount of witch hazel directly on the fever blister sores six times per day for up to a week. If irritation occurs, reduce the frequency of applications.