Herbal Cold Sore Treatment

Cold sores are caused by the herpes virus. The cycle of a cold sore begins with a tingling or burning sensation in a particular area of the lip. A day or two later, a red bump similar to a pimple forms. The pimple turns into a blister, which bursts and eventually scabs over. This cycle usually takes five to seven days. In the U.S., 30 percent of all adults suffer from the herpes virus. Fortunately, there are several simple herbal treatments that can be used to lesson the discomfort and speed the healing time of cold sores.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

• Lemon balm contains compounds called polyphenols, which prevent virus cells from attaching to the cells of the body. Lemon balm also contains antioxidants, which boost the body's immune system and help your body fight viruses. Lemon balm tea can be used both internally and as an application. Drink several cups of lemon balm tea per day. Prepare a solution of 2 to 4 teaspoons of herb per cup of water and apply some to the cold sore using a cotton ball.

Echinacea (Echinacea, various species)

• It is believed that, like lemon balm, echinacea has both antiviral and immune-boosting properties. All parts of the echinacea plant are used for medicine, especially unripe (green) seeds. Generally, herbalists recommend using echinacea as a tincture added to tea. Drink one cup three times per day. Echinacea can make your tongue feel numb, but the effect is temporary and harmless.

Mints

• Many varieties of mint have anti-viral properties. Herbal botanist Dr. James A. Duke suggests making a tea using 4 parts lemon balm with 2 parts oregano and self-heal, and 1 part hyssop, rosemary, sage and thyme. This mixture will provide you with 12 compounds that work together to combat the herpes virus. Steep herbs in boiling hot water for 20 minutes and sweeten with licorice or honey.

Red pepper (Capsicum, various species)

• The hot ingredient in red peppers is called capsaicin. Capsaicin is believed to prevent herpes outbreaks. Topical application of hot peppers to cold sores would be too painful, so try adding extra peppers, pepper flakes and pepper sauce to your diet to prevent outbreaks of cold sores.

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

• St. John's wort contains the compound hypericin, which is believed to kill the herpes virus. Make a topical preparation by using tea brewed from St. John's wort flowers or by adding St. John's wort tincture to oil or petroleum jelly and applying to the cold sore several times a day.

Other Suggestions

• The herpes virus can live in your toothbrush. Replace your toothbrush after an outbreak to prevent reinfection. Tubes of toothpaste can also transmit the virus. Use small tubes so they are replaced regularly.
  To speed healing, try applying a water-based zinc ointment as soon as the tingling starts.