Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are contagious. They are often mistaken for canker sores - a non contagious mouth ulcer. Cold sores mainly occur on the skin adjacent to mouth, mostly on the lips. Sometimes they may occur on chin, nostrils, fingers or genitals. Medical term for cold sores is recurrent herpes labialis.

Homemade Cold Sore Remedy

Ice is a very good home remedy for cold sores. Rub ice on the infected skin for few minutes, repeat this every hour.
Apply a tea bag for five to ten minutes each hour at the start of the cold sores. The tannic acid in the tea has antiviral properties. This will prevent their further development.
Applying different types of juice or powder to the sore, or simply holding an ice cube against it.
Rubbing aloe, lemon balm extract, or tea bags to cold sores is also known to lessen their size and help reduce pain.
Avoid acidic or salty foods.
Foods high in arginine such as those containing chocolate, peanuts and other nuts, grains, peas, seeds, oatmeal and whole-wheat products should be reduced from the diet.
Reduce intake of coffee.
Taking B complex supplements with B12 vitamin and folic acid is helpful.
Apply Witch Hazel on sores.
Eat vitamin rich diet. Your diet must include vitamin A, C and E. Zinc and iron are also necessary. Include garlic in your diet.
Eat fresh food with high antioxidants and high complex carbohydrates. Avoid processed food. Eat lots of fruits and green leafy vegetables.
Apply spirit of camphor on the sore.
Herbal Sage, Tea Tree Oil and the herbal sedative Violet have been used as treatments for cold sores. Make a tea by adding two or three Sage leaves and a small ginger root piece or ginger powder to a cup of boiling water and steep. Drink 2-3 cups a day.
Avoid direct contact with the blisters due to cold sores.
Apply sunscreen cream on the susceptible areas. Never share your personal belongings like tooth brush with the infected person.

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