Cold sores are characterized by blisters that appear on or around the lips, though they can also occur on other parts of the mouth. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment but there are natural remedies that may help heal cold sores and alleviate discomfort. While scientific evidence may be limited for some, there are remedies that do not include the use of antiviral medication.
Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antiviral and antimicrobial properties that kill bacteria, sterilize wounds, and prevent the spread of new bacteria. While scientific studies related to cold sores remain limited, tea tree oil has antiseptic properties that promote the natural healing process by drying out cold sores. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11338678/
Lysine: Lysine is an amino acid that may inhibit the cold sore virus. You can find lysine as an oral supplement or in foods like dairy products, fish, and legumes.
Peppermint oil: In a study, peppermint oil was shown to inhibit the activity of both the herpes virus type 1 and type 2 and concluded that peppermint oil might be useful in treating recurrent herpes infections. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13678235/
Cold Sore Patches: Cold sore patches using hydrocolloid gel technology creates the ideal conditions for healing by absorbing fluid and creating a moist environment to prevent scabbing. It also creates a protective barrier to prevent bacteria and external contaminants from entering the area. Some thicker patches reduce pain and itching by covering nerve endings. SmartMed offers a variety of cold sore patches with different ingredients and different sizes depending on your needs.