Cold sore treatments can be cheap and effective when prepared from home. We call them home remedies for cold sores or natural cold sore treatments. Whatever it is, they can be concocted using simple food ingredients or household products which are readily available at the supermarket. Here are some cold sore treatments to treat your cold sores.

1. Cold Sore Diet

Our diet can be modified to treat cold sores.

a. Arginine Reduction

Herpes simplex virus depends on arginine, an amino acid to grow and proliferate. So we can avoid salty and acidic foods that are rich in arginine such as chocolate, seeds, oatmeal, nuts, almonds, whole grains and peas.

b. Lysine Intake

Lysine inhibits the development and growth of herpes simplex virus. It is an essential amino acid that aids the production of antibodies and can be found in foods like red meat, cheese, soya products, milk, eggs, wheat germ, legumes, vegetables, chicken, fish and brewers yeast.

c. Caffeine Reduction

Cut back on beverages like coffee and tea. These drinks are bad for our skin on the whole.

d. Vitamins Intake

Vitamins and minerals are effective in reducing the cold sore duration; prevent recurrences and enhancing our immunity against viruses. Remember to have daily intake of Vitamin A, B complex, C and E, iron and zinc.

e. Vegetables and Fruits

Eat lots of vegetables and fruits such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, garlic and cabbage.

2. Application of Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis)

Lemon balm is antiviral in nature and is extremely effective against cold sores.

3. Application of Peppermint (Mentha Piperita)

Similar to lemon balm, application of peppermint on the affected area is a good cold sore treatment.

4. Application of Tea Bag

Applying a wet tea bag over the sores is yet another excellent cold sore treatment. Tea contains tannic acid, an antiviral agent.

5. Application of Resveratol

Red grapes contain resveratol which is able to suppress the herpes simplex virus. Crush them into a paste and rub it over the cold sores.

6. Application of Witch Hazel

Witch hazel has also been used as a cold sore treatment at home. It is used as a topical medication over the affected sores.

7. Application of Aloe Vera Gel or Oil

Applying aloe vera gel or oil on the cold sore helps to keep the cold sores from spreading. Repeat this at least 3 times a day. It would also offer some pain and itch relief.

8. Application of Ice

This is one of the oldest natural cold sore treatments. You probably have used it on your cold sores before. It not only slows down the cold sore development, but also alleviates the pain and itchiness.

These are some of most widely used cold sore treatments. Find more effective and natural cold sore treatments at my blog that would help you treat your cold sores quickly.

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