Cold sores appear around your mouth when you contract the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Many medications can help reduce the inflammation and ease the pain. Yet, according to scientists, some natural ingredients may be just as efficient. What’s more, they won’t cause any unwanted side effects. You’ll find those ingredients in these five essential oils for cold sores.
1. Lemon Balm Oil
Research shows that lemon balm oil can stop herpes cells from multiplying. Because it penetrates the skin, it’s good as a topical treatment of cold sores. As such, you should apply it to the cold sore a few times a day.
2. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil has several ingredients that have antiviral properties. They inhibit virus cells in your body and destroy them from within. It also acts as an antioxidant, thus helping your body recover faster. Moreover, it may also protect you from further occurrences of cold sores.
3. Chamomile Oil
Chamomile oil is one of the best essential oils for cold sores. Some studies have found it to be very effective in treating the symptoms of HSV-1. What’s more, it may also treat some strains of the virus that are resistant to conventional drugs.
4. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil has a very calming effect on the skin, which makes it one of the best essential oils for cold sores. Moreover, a 2001 study found that it also had a strong antiviral effect. Before you apply it to the skin, you will need to dilute it in water or vegetable oil.
5. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil also soothes your skin and is very efficient in destroying herpes cells. Like chamomile oil, it may have the same effect on the strains that are immune to other drugs out there. To get the best results, you should start using it as soon as the outbreak occurs.
Final Word
These are five of the best essential oils for cold sores. Lab tests and studies have shown they can speed up your recovery and ease the pain that follows the outbreak. Before you apply the oils, test them on another area of your skin to make sure there are no allergic reactions. If the cold sores persist after a week, ask your doctor about other treatment options.
