Cold sores are small, painful blisters and open sores that appear around the mouth and lips. They are caused by herpes simplex virus, and they generally take two to three weeks to fully heal. Since the virus is never expelled from the body, outbreaks can occur throughout a person's life. There are several household remedies and strategies that can knock out cold sores quickly during outbreaks.
Increase Lysine Consumption
Lysine is a naturally occurring protein found in foods such as red meat and dairy products. When consumed, it replaces some arginine protein in body cells. Arginine is a component of the herpes virus and is required for the virus to multiply. If the virus locates an area with low arginine levels, it usually does not settle there. Eating a diet rich in cheese, milk, gelatin-free yogurt and beef at the start of an outbreak will reduce the chances of the virus taking root in the form of cold sores. Ideally, those encountering an outbreak should take between 1,000 and 3,000 mg of lysine daily, which can also be achieved through capsule supplements. At the same time, avoid foods high in arginine, including nuts, seeds, grains and chocolate.
Natural Treatments and Supplements
Natural treatments and supplements are helpful in combating the herpes virus that causes . When you first feel a cold sore, apply aloe juice to the area. It can halt the development of sores if applied immediately, and it also aids in healing. Cornstarch and water paste and camphor spirits can be applied to the sores to relieve them, though the camphor oil can cause irritation. Apply ice to the sore every 10 minutes during the first hour to deter the virus, which prefers a warm, moist environment. Mint and lemon balm extracts speed up the healing time of open sores from several weeks to less than five days. After applying any treatments, clean the area around the sore with isopropyl alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. Thoroughly dry the sore area and keep it as cool as possible.
Avoid Acidic Foods
The herpes simplex virus thrives in acidic environments. While stress, illness and excessive exposure to sunlight can cause your body's pH to become slightly acidic, as tomatoes, citrus fruits, carbonated beverages, vinegar products and wine can greatly lower your body's pH. When you start noticing the outbreak, cut these foods from your diet and hold off on eating them until the sores are fully healed.
Tags: cold sores, foods such, herpes simplex, herpes simplex virus, herpes virus