The search continues for an effective and reliable cold sore remedy. Unsightly, and even more uncomfortable, cold sores are liquid-filled blisters that often occur around or even in the mouth, are highly contagious, and can last for a week or more. Every individual that has experienced cold sores will have a different suggestion or fix for this common affliction; so what is, in fact, the best cold sore remedy being discussed and offered today?
One must first make a distinction between cold sores and canker sores. Although similar to cold sores, canker sores are generally less severe, can be triggered by different causes, and are treated by different methods. Cold sores are either a dormant virus that can be activated in situations that stress the body, or are a sexually transmitted disease that manifests as a form of oral herpes. Understanding the underlying causes of cold sores, and avoiding them by being mindful and aware, will help to prevent contraction of the virus, as well as future outbreaks. Therefore, prevention can be considered the first natural cold sore remedy. Other simple lifestyle choices to help prevent cold sore outbreaks include eating a well-balanced diet, getting adequate and regular amounts of sleep, doing some form of regular exercise, and seeking counseling to help avoid and deal with stressful situations.
Once a cold sore has started to appear, it is virtually impossible to make disappear. The best way to treat an outbreak is to find a solution that shortens its duration and soothes the discomfort that will inevitably be experienced. Consider looking at a cold sore home remedy before looking for commercial solutions, which are often much less cost-effective, and are not guaranteed to work more efficiently or effectively. Below is a list of documented at-home remedies that may help individuals. It should be understood that different solutions may be effective for different cases, and therefore the appropriate cold sores remedy for any one person is best found through trial and error.
Several cold sore natural remedy options, that can be applied at home, include, but are not limited to, the following: Resveratrol cream, Reishi mushroom powders or supplements, lemon balm, peppermint oil, vitamin E oil, propolis, and other herbs that claim healing properties, such as Echinacea. Many of the above-listed products contain anti-viral and/or anti-inflammatory properties. Although proven to work for certain individuals, they should not be experimented with until first consulting the specific indications and application instructions accompanying them as well as discussing options with a qualified professional. Other natural remedy suggestions include increasing lysine intake by eating foods rich in the amino acid, such as eggs, milk, red meat, brewer’s yeast, fish, and wheat germ, or simply taking supplements, and coating the affected areas with petroleum jelly in order to prevent further infection by external bacteria.
There are numerous advertisements online that claim to eliminate cold sores permanently. As the suggestions listed above, these adverts may have varied levels of success. Before resorting to expensive advertised solutions, consider trying a cold sore remedy from the options listed above, and remember that prevention is always the best solution.