Natural Cure for Cold Sores

One natural cure for cold sores is zinc, and this treatment can be very helpful when taken topically to help heal, and even prevent, cold sores from forming. Zinc lozenges can also be dissolved in the mouth every three hours for two days at the first signs of an outbreak, or a daily supplement of up to fifty milligrams can be taken orally, and the zinc can help to shorten the duration of an outbreak if it has already started. If zinc is taken at the first sign of tingling, before the blisters appear, the outbreak may be prevented in some cases. Goldenseal and red clover are also good supplements to prevent cold sores by helping to boost up the immune system. Other herbs that can help with this include echinacea and pau d' arco, and taking any of these herbs singly or in combination can help cure your cold sores faster and with less pain.

Another natural cure for cold sores is diet, because making some minor changes in your diet can help prevent outbreaks before they start. Sugar in your diet should be eliminated, or at least minimized, because high levels of sugar in your diet can trigger an outbreak. Foods that are high in acid should be avoided completely, because the acid can start to break down the tissue in and around the mouth, triggering an outbreak. Alcohol is another item that should be avoided completely, because this is a trigger for many people who suffer from cold sores, and alcohol dehydrates the body as well. A nutritious diet that contains a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, with some protein and whole grains as well for balance, is the best cure for cold sores and requires no prescriptions or side effects.

Lifestyle changes and changes in your daily activities both represent a natural cure for cold sores, as well. The sun can be a big trigger in causing outbreaks, so avoid sun bathing completely. If you must be out in the sun for any time at all, use a strong sun block on your face and lip area to protect it from irritation and ultraviolet rays. Take all possible measures to lower your stress levels, because high stress can also cause an outbreak, plus it weakens the immune system and makes it harder for your body to fight the virus.