Cause: Herpes virus.

Useful Supplements: Lysine, Zinc.

Useful Herbs: Lemon Balm, Licorice.

Further information: Cold sores are a manifestation of the herpes simplex virus, and appear as small, often painful, blisters in and around the lips and mouth. This virus is highly contagious, and believed to affect most people. It can reside latently in the system, and blisters can reappear at any time. Common causes of reoccurrence are illness, menstrual periods, and sun exposure.
Most cold sores last for one to two weeks, and will go away on their own. Washing with soap and water helps to minimize their spread, and ice or warm compresses can be used to ease the pain.

The following herbs and supplements have been shown helpful in the treatment of cold sores:

Lysine is an amino acid found in meats, dairy products and legumes. It has been shown effective in the treatment and healing of cold sores.¹ A dose of 500 mg three times daily, starting at the first sign of a cold sore, is recommended.

Zinc has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of cold sores.² It is believed to inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus, and can be either taken orally or applied topically to existing sores.

Lemon Balm’s antiviral properties are an effective treatment for the herpes simplex virus. When applied topically, it appears to reduce recurring outbreaks.³

Licorice also has antiviral properties.⁴ It is also known to aid in the healing of ulcerative lesions like those of herpes simplex. It both speeds healing and alleviates pain.⁵ Topical and internal use combined appear to have the best results.⁶ Licorice should be avoided by patients with high blood pressure.

References:

¹Griffith R, et al. A multicentered study of lysine therapy in herpes simplex infection. Dermatol 1978;156:257_67.
²Fitzherbert J. Genital herpes and zinc. Med J Aust 1979;1:399.
³Wobling RH., Leonhardt K. Local therapy of herpes simplex with dried extract from Melissa officinalis. . Local therapy of herpes simplex with dried extract from Melissa officinalis. Phytomedicine 1994;1:24-31.
⁴Pompeii R, et al. Antiviral activity of glycyrrhizic acid. Experentia 1980;36:304.
⁵Poswillo D, Partridge M. Management of recurrent apthous ulcers. Br Dent J 1984;137:55_7.
⁶Partridge M, Poswillo D. Topical carbonoxolone sodium in the management of herpes simplex infections. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg 1984;22:138_45.