Natural Cures for Recurrent Cold Sores

Recurrent cold sores are caused by the herpes virus and are easily spread for person to person through contact such as kissing. The cold sore itself is a painful blister which is filled with fluid; they are prone to bursting and becoming infected. Cold sores often recur during times of stress or after an injury when the immune system is weakened.

Lemon Balm

• The leaves of the lemon balm plant contain high levels of poly-phenols which have an inhibitory effect on the recurrent cold sore virus. Lemon balm can be made into a lip balm to be applied to the sores whenever they occur.

Echinacea

• Echinacea, in the form of an essential oil, is often taken by people suffering from stress as it boosts the immune system. This can help to prevent the cold sores from re-occurring during this period.

Diet

• Recurring cold sores can be remedied by eating more vitamin rich foods to boost the immune system. Look for foods which contain high levels of vitamin C, A and B and try to eat more garlic as this has anti-viral agents to suppress the herpes virus.