Cold Sores Causes, Symptoms & Remedies Source

Cold sores are painful fluid-filled blisters which crust over after bursting. They usually appear on the mouth and around the lips or nose, sometimes in clusters. They are caused by viral infection (herpes simplex). The virus is harbored by most people, most of the time, but is most likely to cause problems when the immune system is compromised, dealing with other viral infections (such as a cold), or when one is run down. Cold sores are highly contagious.

CAUTION
Cold sores are infectious—wash hands carefully after applying any lotion, and use a personal towel.

Symptoms 
• pain and soreness from the characteristic crusting blister
• cracking and weeping may occur, particularly if sores are in the comers of the mouth

TREATMENT

Herbalism 
St. John’s wort tincture, applied immediately, should prevent development of a sore. Once the cold sore is established, myrrh tincture can be applied sparingly to help dry it up. Aromatherapy Bergamot, eucalyptus, and tea tree oils will help to treat the blisters, and should be applied at the first sign of a sore. Lavender oil will help to heal blisters that erupt.

Homeopathy
Constitutional treatment is best, but the following remedies may help:
• Nat. mur., for deep cracks in the lower lip, dry mouth, and puffy burning cold sores.
• Rhus tox., for mouth and chin sores, and ulcers at the corner of the mouth.
• Sempervivum, for ulcers in the mouth, and bleeding gums; and when the condition is worse at night.
• Capsicum, for cracks at the corners of the mouth.

Vitamins and Minerals 
Cold sores tend to crop up when you feel run down, so it is important that you eat healthily and ensure that you get plenty of the following nutrients, which boost immunity: Wholegrain cereals like brown rice and wholewheat bread, fruit, pulses (beans and lentils), a few nuts and seeds for their vital oils. A daily multivitamin and multimineral preparation— especially one containing high amounts of the antioxidant nutrients—acts to boost immune activity. Vitamin C stimulates immunity and is antiviral as well as being anti-fungal. Acidophilus will encourage the healthy bacteria in your gut, which will help to fight off infections and infestations. Zinc stimulates the immune system, and acts as an antiviral and antifungal agent.