Cold sores are not pleasant. Even though they're small, they are painful, noticeable and irritating. They begin as harmless blisters, but slowly transform into unattractive crusty sores with time! The traditional line of treatment for the virus-induced blisters includes topical antiviral creams and oral drugs.
But these 4 best essential oils for cold sores that are just as effective, but better for you. The key is to start using one as soon as the first symptoms appear for a quick recovery.
In this article we take a look at the best essential oils for cold sores.
Causes of Cold Sores
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are agonizing blister-like structures, the trigger factors being the Simplex Herpes Virus. They could appear anywhere on your body, but the corners of the mouth, cheeks, lips, and tips of the nose are more prone to these outbreaks.
The sores last anywhere between 7 to 10 days. While they are not harmful, they are contagious. They break out and ooze, turning the scabbed skin yellow.
Once the scab falls away, the new skin appears. Although the cold sores are considered safe, a compromised immune system puts you in a danger zone.
The bad news is that this virus tends to reside in the human body even after the sores disappear. Hence, there are chances of recurrent outbreaks. So, it's best to protect yourself from this viral infection.
How to Use Essential Oils for Cold Sores
There are over-the-counter topical medications that offer relief from cold sores. But if you wish to heal those naturally, essential oils can help you.
So, how can you use these natural remedies for cold sores?
You can use essential oils topically or consume internally to reap their healing properties.
Topically, apply just two drops of the essential oil on the affected area at least three times a day. Follow this method of healing for 5 to 7 days or until symptoms completely disappear.
Alternatively, you could prepare a concoction by blending multiple essential oils in a carrier oil. You can apply this mixture to the cold sores as required.
Internally, you can use a food grade essential oil by mixing two drops of water and consuming the same. Or, just fill a gel capsule with one or more antiviral essential oil and take it three times a day additional protection.
Here’s a list of essential oils that you could use to ease cold sores. While you can use some single oils, you can also blend others for quicker healing.
Essential Oils Guide to Health and Non-Toxic Living – In this essential oils guide, we share how to use essential oils for health and non-toxic living. We'll also explore some of the most common questions people have.
Best Essential Oils For Cold Sores
1. Geranium
Soothes the sores and prevents the blisters from turning into crusts. The antiseptic properties of Geranium shield you from infection. Apply 2 to 3 drops every few hours on the sores or use it in the blend outlined below. You could even dilute it with a carrier oil like sesame or olive oil.
2. Roman Chamomile
The antiviral and antiseptic properties of Roman Chamomile makes it a powerful antidote for the nasty fever blisters. It might also ease the discomfort. Make sure that you dilute it in olive oil or sweet almond for faster results.
3. Lavender
The soothing lavender is known to ease the pain and discomfort. Being an all-rounder, it might even prevent the formation of crusts. Mix it with tea tree oil or dilute in coconut oil for moisturizing and healing the blisters.
4. Melissa
This blend of Lemon Balm and Peppermint is handmade and effective with 100% natural ingredients and works to heal them in about 48 hours.
7 Best Essential Oil Blends For Cold Sores
1. Ravensara essential oil and Tamanu oil
2. Lemon, Thyme, Lavender, and Geranium Blend
3. Tea Tree, Bergamot, Myrrh, and Lemon Balm
4. Orange and Peppermint
5. Camphor and Rose
6. Peppermint, Frankincense, and Oregano
7. Sandalwood and Eucalyptus
Have you ever use essential oils for cold sores? Share your experience with us in the comment box below. It gets pretty lonely unless we hear from you! 🙂
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The last time I had the start of a cold sore, I put TeaTree oil only onthe spot seversl times a day for 2 or 3 days. The sore never blossomed. It went away very quickly. I haven’t had another one since. That has been about a year ago.