Home Remedies to Cure Cold Sores

Home Remedies to Cure Cold Sores

Cold sores are blisters that appear red in color on the area surrounding the mouth. Caused by a virus called herpes, cold sores often involve embarrassment and pain for the victim. It’s a very common and contagious virus, which can victimize just about anyone at some point in their life. Studies reveal that more than half a billion people are affected by this virus at one time.

Cold sores have the potential to affect your speech, and pose problems while consuming food. Headache, fever, itching and swelling of lips are the most common symptoms of cold sores.

The usual healing period is a week or two. However, its occurrence can be frequent. Once affected, the virus stays in the body for the complete lifetime. Fortunately, it stays dormant for most part, unless triggered by one’s weak immune system or any other prompting factor.

Let’s discuss the most effective home remedies which can help one get rid of cold sores.

Fluid Intake

One of the most easiest and natural means to cure cold sores is to intake plenty of water and fresh juices at regular intervals. Fruits that contain lot of water are highly recommended during this period. Plenty of fluids intake are known to weaken the impact of cold sores virus.

Ices

Applying ice on the affected area is another zero budget method to cure cold sores. It’s recommended to use an ice pack, rather than having direct contact of the ice on the sore area. Ice can provide one with great relief by erasing the pain.

Apply ice for about 10 minutes at a time. One can continue this process several times in a day with an interval of an hour or two in between.

Tea Bags

Applying tea bags on the blisters is another well known home remedy for curing cold sores. Use a moderately warm tea bag, and apply it on the affected area for about 10 to 20 minutes for a few days. The tannic acid present in the tea bags are known to heal and dry the sore.

Salt

Your everyday household salt can also help you get rid of cold sores. Dip your finger into the salt container, and press the sore area for about a minute or two with that finger. Apply salt in a similar fashion for few days, and wait for the positive results.

Diet

Diet plays a crucial role in curing cold sores. Avoiding acidic and salty food items is a must for faster cure. Food items like chocolate, oatmeal, grains, peanuts which are high on arginine should be restricted as well.

One should include vitamin rich food contents in their daily routine. Vitamin A, B, C and E along with plenty of fruits and leafy vegetables are vital food items to be consumed, when affected by cold sores. Stress triggers cold sores. Adequate intake of Vitamin B and C reduces the stress level within the body, thus eliminating the cause of cold sores.

Those who are experiencing 3 or more outbreaks of cold sores every year may already know how uncomfortable cold sores can be. Fortunately, with some effective measures in place, one can happily pave goodbye to cold sores.