Those who suffer from herpes already know that there is nothing more distressing, painful, and embarrassing than waking up with such a sore on the lips, especially when it comes to a day when we have a very important meeting or event. The herpes virus tends to attack the body in situations where the immune system is weakened, meaning, if you usually suffer from then you can expect them to occur after the onset of a disease that is accompanied by fever, as well as during transitional seasons, stressful situations and periods of extreme hormonal changes. The solution for most of those suffering from this problem is a special ointment that can be bought at the pharmacy. However, if you have a herpes sore on your lips and don’t have time to go to the pharmacy or just want to treat it more naturally, there are 9 natural methods to help you get rid of herpes quickly and efficiently. Note that these treatments are only meant for herpes sores found on the lips.
It may surprise you to discover that the simple milk in your refrigerator can provide you with an effective solution for herpes. All you have to do is soak a cotton ball with 1% milk and leave it on the sore for a few minutes. Repeat this several times a day and don’t rinse the area after soaking, so that the active ingredients in the milk can work against the wound.
Licorice root is an effective remedy for herpes sores because it contains an acid called glycerin, which helps stop the development of the virus and "equips" the body with what it needs to fight the wound. You can try to eat licorice root as it is while in a situation which may pre-empt a sore, but the best way to use it is by mixing licorice powder (available in health stores) with a little water to make an ointment and apply it a few times a day.
Some of you may remember your mother saying that garlic is an excellent cure for colds and flu, but what she may not have known is that garlic also helps get rid of pesky herpes sores. The antiviral abilities of garlic make it an excellent solution if your plagues with a sore. All you have to do is crush one clove and place it directly on the wound for a few minutes and then rinse the area with lukewarm water.
The essential oil derived from mint also has anti-viral properties, and there is no doubt that its smell is preferable to that of garlic. If you have mint oil, you should use it. Apply it to your lips with a cotton bud 3 times a day.
Tea tree oil has many uses and is also known as a natural remedy that helps to relieve wounds of all kinds. Applying to your herpes sore will help dry it and get rid of it within one day. Just make sure to apply it to the sore several times during the day, and before bedtime.
Vanilla extract is used mainly in baking but is also known for its various medicinal abilities, because it has high levels of alcohol, which makes it difficult for viruses to survive. Apply it directly to the sore with a cotton bud 4-5 times a day to cure it.
Ice has no health benefits worth mentioning, but it is on the list of natural remedies for herpes sores, and the advantage of it is that it’s the simplest and most common of all the natural treatments on this list. Once you notice a sore popping out on your lips, take an ice cube and place it on the area. Cold ice will help to prevent pain and swelling, which will also help you avoid the urge to pick at the sore and consequently worsen its condition.
Olive oil is known to be an excellent skin moisturizer, but it is also used as an effective remedy for the treatment of herpes sores. Take a cup of olive oil, heat it in a pot and add a little honey and lavender oil. After a few minutes remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool down. After it has cooled, apply it to the affected area.
Black coffee provides a particularly effective solution against herpes sores in particular and mouth ulcers in general, as it helps to get rid of the pain and swelling that accompanies them. To use this grandmother's medicine, prepare yourself a cup of black coffee, soak a cotton round in it, and place it on the sore. Do this twice a day and experience significant relief in the sensation and appearance of your lips.
image source: Jeansef, Stephanie (strph) from Oklahoma City, Hans Stieglitz