Herbal Remedies for Cold Sore Relief and Treatment
 Herbal remedies are a time honored natural treatment for many different conditions. They both strengthen the body and treat disease. Cold sores are one of the ailments that you can treat naturally with herbs. Since cold sores are thought to be caused by a virus, herbal treatments that have antiviral properties are often effective. In fact, many of the same natural remedies used to treat the herpes virus are used as natural treatments for cold sores. Immune boosters are also believed to be successful as a herbal cure for cold sores. Clinical studies have indicated herbal treatments can be used for preventative care, as well as, a natural cure for cold sores.
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Natural Herbs for Cold Sore Symptoms Relief
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm is now among the most popular herbal remedies for cold sores. This may come as a surprise when historically it was known more predominately for its sedative properties. As recently as 1964, water extracts of melissa officinalis were discovered to have substantial antiviral benefits and it became more commonly known for this purpose. Evidence from numerous clinical studies suggests that lemon balm is a successful preventative measure for fighting viruses such as herpes simplex. In turn, it also acts as a treatment once a viral infection manifests.
One trial was run consisting of 115 patients with cold sores having manifested less than 72 hours. Each patient was directed to a cream containing Lemon Balm to the infected area five times a day. An astounding 60% of patients were completely healed after only four days of use. After six days 87% of patients were cured from the natural remedy and 96% after eight days. The standard recovery rate from herpes simplex is 10 to 14 days with no medicinal assistance. With this in mind, results from this study indicate that a lemon balm cream reduces the recovery time by nearly half. (Phytomed, 1994; 1: 25-31). Yet another study conducted in hospitals and dermatology clinics in Germany supports the same results. The untreated blisters of the control group healed in 10 days while the natural treatment, lemon balm cream, healed them in just 5 days. It is important to note that lemon balm creams can have different potency levels. The cream used in the study had a concentrate of Melissa extract of 70:1. When assessing the quality of the cream, look for the concentration, as well as, information concerning quality control testing and/or in vitro antiviral testing. The suggested usage is the application of a 1% 70:1 extract of lemon-balm cream, four times daily for five days or until the sore is completely healed.
Olive leaf tincture (Tinctura olea foliorum)
75 years in the natural treatment of cold sore outbreaks. Typically it is administered orally in either liquid or capsule form. One small study of six subjects indicated 50% of the patients reported complete relief of blisters within 36 to 48 hours. The same study suggested that continued use acted as a viable preventative option despite consuming cold sore inducing foods such as onions, corn and pork. (Townsend Letter For Docs, May 1997: 110) In addition, when olive leaf tincture was compared to acyclovir, the olive leaf tincture natural remedy was found to be more effective.
Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
Witch hazel has shown to have anti-viral properties. It is believe to be the proanthocyanidins in witch hazel that successfully combats the herpes simplex 1 virus in test tube trials. Normally a topical cream containing 2% witch hazel bark extract is suggested for use six times a day for three to eight days. Studies have shown that by the eighth day, there should be noticeable results in the size and spread of the inflammation.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi is a type of mushroom with immune boosting qualities much like echinacia. It has been used for centuries in traditional Asian medicine. It is often used in conjunction with the herb astragalus to enhance its performance. This medicinal herb can be obtained in both power and caplet form. The recommended dose is 600 milligrams once or twice a day. Patients who are taking aspirin, warfarin (coumadin), or any other medications or supplements that interfere with blood clotting should consult a doctor before taking Reishi.
Propolis (Bees Propolis)
This is a substance that bees collect from tree buds. Bee propolis contains antioxidants which are considered to be the active ingredient in aiding cold sores. This remedy has quite a long history as being used for wound infection and other illnesses. Studies show it to be active against bacteria and other microorganisms when applied topically.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Another herbal remedy for cold sores. Licorice extracts that contain glycyrrhizin or glycyrrhetinic acid should be used, as these are the properties that are most likely to provide help in treatment of cold sores. Licorice in the forms of creams or gels can be directly applied to the sore three to four times a day.
Echinacea (Echinacea augustifolia, echniacea purpurea )
Echinacea is yet another herbal treatment for the herpes simplex virus based on a study by the University of Ottawa. It is thought to boost the immune system which then defeats the virus. Perhaps the effect is due to a substance it contains which works to protect mucus membranes known as collagen from the harmful effects of bacteria and viruses. The recommended procedure for administration is to swish about 1 teaspoon of liquid Echinacea root decoction or ˝ teaspoon tincture in the mouth for few minutes and then swallow the solution. Repeat three or more times a day to maximize both preventative and healing potential.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Chamomile is one of the herbal remedies for cold sores that has been gaining in popularity. It contains the substance bisabolol which aids in the healing of cold sores of the mucous membranes and serves as an antimicrobial as well. It also contains chamazulene, which is an anti-inflammatory substance.
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)
Black Walnut is an herb many choose above all else due to its antiseptic properties that are very high in natural iodine. Black Walnut can be used both externally for pain relief and internally for future prevention.
Some other natural herbs that have been used for cold sores treatment.
| Natural Supplements for Cold Sores
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The Use of Herbal Supplements for the Treatment of Cold Sores
Herbal remedies for cold sores or herpes simplex 1 relief should be discussed with your natural health practitioner before you begin any treatment. It is important to establish which is the cause of your cold sore outbreaks and that it is not something of a more serious nature.
Many of the herbs mentioned for cold sore relief can be integrated into your daily life for an overall sense of better well being. Most of them offer relief of the problem, but are often used regularly to increase the body’s immune system.
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"Health is not simply the absence of sickness !"
Hannah Green
May You Grow and Prosper.
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