Unsightly, the cold sore, or herpes labialis, most often appears during a peak of fatigue or stress. Often not very dangerous for health, it nevertheless represents an embarrassment and proves to be very contagious. We tell you everything you need to know about cold sores: definition, causes, symptoms. And learn how to get rid of your cold sores with our home remedies. Indeed, there are natural treatments to fight against cold sores, find out which ones.
Summary
What is a cold sore?
The cold sore, also called cold sores, is a highly contagious virus that never dies in the body. The cold sore is the visible sign of herpes, which can become a nuisance.
When the HSV-1 virus enters the body, it infects nerve cells in the affected area. Then it lodges in the lymph node for quite a long time. It is favoring factors such as stress that will reactivate it. From there, the virus multiplies and crosses the nerve fibers. A lesion then appears on the surface of the skin. This is the famous cold sore.
On the other hand, the cold sore, or herpes labialis, is characterized by a group of yellowish vesicles. Usually it is located at the outer edge of a lip or nostril, but can spread to other parts of the body such as the neck. It burns slightly, is itchy, and may also ooze before it scabs over and disappears without scarring.
Note, herpes can also settle for no apparent reason, in a completely isolated way.
What are the causes ?
Most often, the HSV-1 virus appears during childhood. Then, there are factors that promote the occurrence of cold sores:
- stress and anxiety;
- a fever ;
- a cold, sore throat or flu;
- a state of tiredness;
- illness or surgery;
- taking immunosuppressants and corticosteroids;
- exposure to the sun or cold;
- the period ;
- a blow or sore on the lips.
Symptoms
Certain signs announce the occurrence of a cold sore. Among them, tingling and itching as well as an unusual sensation around the lips. 24 hours after the appearance of these signs, vesicles occur.
Very contagious herpes must be treated as soon as possible, from the first symptoms. To avoid transmission, be sure to reduce scratching of the pimple so as not to transport the virus to the eyes or genitals.
On the other hand, scratching lesions can cause superinfection with multiplication of blisters and crusts, and purulent discharge.
Also limit your contact with infants, the elderly, patients undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppressive treatment and with AIDS patients.
Do not go to the hospital, avoid kissing and oral sex, use your own towels and wash your hands after treating your cold sore.
Note that once the cold sore is visible on the skin, it will heal after a maximum of fifteen days.
What are the natural treatments for cold sores?
The most advanced forms of herpes labialis must be the subject of a consultation with a doctor, and will have to be treated with an antiviral.
And for simple, uncomplicated cold sores, there are 100% natural remedies.
cider vinegar
We no longer present this product with multiple health benefits. Apple cider vinegar is also a good anti-herpes remedy because it dries up the pimple while disinfecting the affected area. It also accelerates healing.
Simply apply a few drops of the product several times a day using a cotton swab. The operation should be performed as soon as possible, from the first tingling.
Toothpaste
Perhaps less effective than another natural remedy, but very easy in an emergency. Put some white paste on the cold sore. Namely, herbal toothpastes will prove to be the most effective in the fight against cold sores.
The ice cube
Wrap an ice cube in a tissue so as not to burn the skin, then hold it on the affected area for about ten minutes. The cold stops the growth of herpes.
If necessary, repeat the operation up to three times a day.
Baking soda
In a little lukewarm water, dilute a teaspoon of baking soda. After obtaining a paste, apply it on the cold sore, leaving it to act for 30 minutes. Then rinse. You can repeat the operation another time during the day.
garlic
Garlic, this natural antiseptic, is one of the most effective products against herpes. It dries the cold sore and disinfects the skin at the same time.
Simply cut a clove of garlic in half. Rub half on the area to be treated for a few seconds. And this, up to three times a day.
Milk
Milk slows the growth of cold sores as it is found to be rich in lysine. Soak a cotton ball with milk before placing it on the area to be treated. The operation will be carried out several times a day.
If you don’t have milk, you can also use yogurt.
The lemon
Rich in vitamin C, lemon is a great natural antiseptic and helps fight against cold sores. Apply a few drops to the pimple three times a day.
Note, it is recommended to also drink lemon juice diluted in warm water to strengthen your immune system.
Essential oils
Some essential oils help heal cold sores. Among them, the essential oil of tea tree (tea tree) and that of ravintsara.
Please note, these natural solutions are not recommended for pregnant women and children.
A clay poultice
Apply a clay poultice to the affected area to fight your cold sores. Leave for 30 minutes before rinsing off with water.
Honey
Useful for treating chapped lips, honey also helps to get rid of a cold sore.
Apply a little honey to the affected area and let it sit for about fifteen minutes. Then, rinse with water. To be renewed three times a day if necessary.
