Cold Sores and Fever Blisters

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The dreaded cold sore, aka fever blister, is caused by the herpes simplex virus. Besides being quite contagious, the virus can be resistant to treatment–especially during its dormant phase. Cold sores usually last about seven to ten days. They start out with a tingling feeling around the outside of your lip and morph into red, raised, fluid-filled blisters within a day or two. Cold sores can also form inside your mouth, on your nose, or on your chin and take as long as twenty days to develop after exposure.

There are two types of herpes simplex viruses to be aware of: Type 1 and type 2. Type 1 causes cold sores, and type 2 is the genital version. Either type can cause sores on both the facial areas and the genitals though. Once you’ve gotten a cold sore at least once, the virus stays in your skin and can crop up again throughout the years. Sometimes stress or menstruation can trigger outbreaks.

Cold sores often clear up on their own though, unless you have a weakened immune system. Herbal approaches to treatment include disinfecting the sores, and helping the immune system fight the virus.

Black Walnut is the herb of choice to use for cold sores and fever blisters. This herb is an antiseptic which is high in natural iodine, and can be used both externally and internally to treat cold sores. Use black walnut extract to paint the cold sores several times each day, and take dried black walnut herb internally as well.

Aloe Vera gel is another popular herb to use for treating cold sores. It too can be applied to the sores several times each day, and the juice can be drunk as well.

Comfrey salve will help heal the cold sores as well. This is a cell proliferant which helps your body heal very quickly. Prick the cold sores and apply comfrey salve externally for best results.

Remember that cold sores and fever blisters are quite contagious though, particularly when a sore is present, so you should avoid contact with babies and anyone who has a weakened immune system from diseases such as HIV and Diabetes.

When you have active sores, be sure to keep your hands clean, and avoid contact with other areas of your body such as the eyes and genital areas. Wash your hands often and be sure to sterilize or replace your toothbrush when outbreaks occur, and of course avoid kissing anyone until you’re healed.