Natural Remedies For Cold Sores

Cold sores, sometimes known as fever blisters are a type of Herpes virus, known as HSV1.  Cold sores are related to the virus that causes genital herpes (HSV-2) but are of a different sort.  Cold sore can nevertheless be just as embarrassing.  Cold sores generally appear from about three to ten days after exposure and can last up to three weeks.  The virus remains in the body and moves into the nervous system.  The virus lives close to the lips. 

The virus will often lay dormant in the body until it is triggered by one thing or another.  A cold, fever, viral infection, exposure to the sun and wind, menstruation, depression of the immune system or food allergy can result in a cold sores appearance once the virus has been contracted.  Cold sores are extremely common and very contagious.  Studies show that between 30 and sixty percent of children already carry the virus by age ten.

Cold sores are first felt rather than seen.  A tingling sensation usually precedes their appearance.  Itchiness or prickling around the area is a common tell-tale symptoms.  Then, swelling may begin and the area may become slightly red.  After this a blister or blisters begin to appear.  The last stage involves the full scale blisters which can be painful.  A soft crust then forms over the cold sore, which then eventually gives way to soreness and red hard scab.  Each outbreak can last more than ten days depending on the severity.  As such, from the initial symptoms to the final healing stages can feel like an eternity to the sufferer.

Some of the best ways to avoid an outbreak include maintaining a proper diet and exercise regime.  Many nutrients and supplements can help keep the virus at bay.  Once contracted, L-Lysine can help fight the virus thereby preventing severe outbreaks.  Vitamin B complex is also important for supporting proper immune function.  B vitamins also works to prevent stress and therefore prevent outbreaks that are a result of stress.  Zinc lozenge too are one of the most important nutrients in the arsenal against the virus.  Zinc stimulates immune function and fights he virus.  Zinc is best taken in a lozenge for quick release and ultimate absorption. 

Colloidal Silver is another supplement which has antiseptic and antibiotic qualities.  Colloidal Silver helps to destroy bacterial, virus, and fungi.  This supplement also helps speed healing.  Garlic likewise is a natural antibiotic and immune enhancing substance.  Two to three capsules daily can therefore help prevent outbreaks.

Finally, eating a diet composed of raw fruits and vegetables as well as yogurt and soured products has been shown to be the best means of prevention.  Once a cold sore has developed, Echinacea, Goldenseal and Pau D’arco can help stimulate the immune system and thereby speed up healing. 

If you suffer from very frequent bouts of cold sores, you may want to make sure you are not suffering from any underlying conditions.  Hypothyroidism or low thyroid can result in frequent cold sore outbreaks.  While most often cold sores are simply a nuisance, keeping your immune system healthy can keep you free from frequent outbreaks.