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Cold Sores
Updated: Oct 7
Cold sores are a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus 1 that resides in on nerve endings. Many people harbor this virus but it only "surfaces" when over stressed, immune system compromised, overexposure to the sun and wind and for women, menstruation. It manifests as a tingling in the affected area which can swell to painful blisters that can cluster around the mouth and lips and even on the nose. The blister will ooze and crack and eventually crust over. They can last anywhere from four days to three weeks. The best prevention for a cold sore outbreak is to keep the body in a healthy condition by eating nutritious food, building the immune system, and using stress relief practices regularly.
Because of how contagious the virus is be mindful of what you touch to your mouth and always wash your hands after touching sores.
Consume probiotic rich foods
Apple, cranberry, grape, pear, prune and strawberry juice
Relax and practice stress relieving remedies
Dr. Christopher's X-ceptic Formula - apply directly to sores (This is my favorite go to remedy, alternating with the cold sore balm)
Raw honey, applied directly to sores and taken internally
Many of these herbs can be taken both internally and topically - topical and internal only where noted.
Support the nervous system with nervine herbs
Cayenne
Echinacea
Garlic, juice or poultice applied to the sore and taken internally
Ginger, juice or poultice applied to the sore and taken internally
Lemon balm, poultice over sore or apply tea and drink
Olive leaf, topical
Goldenseal or Oregon grape root (avoid if pregnant or nursing)
Pau d'arco, topical
Myrrh, tincture applied topically
Red clover, internal
St. John's Wort, oil applied topically
Apply at the first sign of tingling and continue applying until gone.
Bergamot
Eucalyptus
Tea tree (melaleuca)
Lavender
Lemon
Melissa - lemon balm
Peppermint
Immunity blend of choice (I like REVIVE Immunity Boost)
