Cold sores that are usually caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) lie in a dormant state until it is activated by various external factors such as cold and excessive exposure to sun. Even stress and anxiety also activate cold sores, that last from 1 to 2 weeks. Instead of visiting doctor you can go through these simple tips on how to get rid of cold sores at home.
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Do have a read and stay pain-free!
Also known as fever blisters, cold sores are a group of small blisters that appear around the mouth especially on the inner side of lower lips. They are usually red and swollen, while some of them breaking into clear fluid. It takes usually 2 weeks to heal these soars.
There are two types of HSV virus – HSV 1 and HSV 2 and both of them cause cold sores. The herpes simplex virus breaks into the body. They also enter into the body through mouth as they are contagious and can easily transfer from an infected person.
Source: answers.com
How to get rid of cold sores at home?
Vanilla
Pure vanilla extract can help heal cold sores. Since it is alcohol based, the vanilla when applied on the sores suffocates the virus and thus reduces the lifespan of this outbreak. Make sure you go for organic/pure vanilla extract.
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All you need to do is soak a cotton ball in vanilla and apply directly on the blisters. Hold the cotton on the spot for over a minute. Repeat this process at least four times a day for better results.
Licorice
Licorice is another great home remedy for cold sores. The glycyrhizic acid present in licorice, restricts the virus cells from spreading further. Plus, the anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties help in curing the cold sores. Licorice is considered to be the most effective tropical treatment for cold sores.
You will need –
- 1 tbspn of licorice root powder
- 1/2 tbspn of water/petroleum jelly
How to apply
- Mix one tbspn of licorice root powder with 1/2 tbspn of water and make a paste. You can also use petroleum jelly instead of water, to ensure the paste stays long
- Now apply the paste on the cold sores and leave it for a few hours
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Use a new toothbrush
Soon after the blisters are formed throw away your toothbrush. Your toothbrush can be among the major culprits, as they carry the virus and transfer it other places in the mouth.
Even though this tip doesn’t heal the sores, but it is surely a preventive measure that prevents an outbreak.
Whole milk compress
You can also put a whole milk compress over your mouth, as it can heal the sores and sooth the pain. You can also drink the whole milk as it contains l-lysine. And for those blisters, you can simply put the compress on the mouth to fight against virus.
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