- Cut a slice of lemon and place it on the cold sore, holding it there for as long as you can manage. This remedy is especially effective when used at the beginning of an outbreak as opposed to treating one that is full-blown. The use of lemon to treat cold sores can be traced back to Europe and will aid in the healing of the sore. Drinking lemon juice can also help your immune system fight off the infection by boosting your levels of vitamin C.
- Applying a warm tea bag of black tea can be beneficial to the healing process of cold sores due to the tannic acid it contains, which is believed to counteract the herpes virus. To use, first let a bag of black tea steep in boiling water; once it cools off, remove the bag and hold it to the affected area while sipping the tea.
- Apple cider vinegar can be used both topically and internally to treat cold sores. Since it is a powerful substance, be sure to dilute it in both cases. You can mix 2 tsp. cider vinegar with a glass of water and drink it once a day until the cold sore fades, or it could be taken daily as a preventative measure. To treat the cold sore topically, dab some water and a few drops of apple cider vinegar onto a cloth or cotton swab and press it against the chin. With its wealth of minerals and detoxifying properties, it is able to work wonders and fight off all kinds of infections.
- Pressing ice against the cold sore will work to numb the pain that it is likely causing and prevent the sore from developing further. Be sure to wrap the ice in either a thin cloth or plastic bag so that it does not freeze-burn the skin. Hold the ice in place for no longer than 15 minutes.
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