Colds sores are the result of a herpes simplex virus infection. The virus manifests itself with several patches of tiny red blisters and commonly occurs in the mouth, lips and nose areas. Although, most common in the mouth area (thus being called oral herpes) there may be outbreaks in several different parts of the body. Oral herpes can be painful and inconvenient for many people. There are some foods to avoid with cold sores active infection for the reason that these can aggravate or sting the blisters.
List Of Foods To Avoid With Cold Sores
Common sense will actually guide you regarding the foods to avoid with a cold sores infection. Salty foods are foremost in the list of foods to avoid with a cold sores outbreak because pure salt can be very painful and irritating for open wounds and sores. Although some people recommend a saltwater dip during a colds sores outbreak, pure salt can be extremely painful when applied to the sores.
About 30% of Americans have the herpes virus which causes cold sores. They are carriers for life, with break outs of cold sores every now and then. More and more, people are eager to find more natural ways of dealing with their medical problems, especially with the outrageous costs of conventional health care. However, if you’ve never had cold sores before, and suddenly get them, you should see your doctor. Herbs for cold sores should be used in conjunction with a doctor’s diagnosis, not completely in the place of it.
Lemon Balm
One of the most effective herbs for cold sores is lemon balm (Melissa officionalis). It has anti-viral properties as well as tannins, which are also in black tea. These tannins, known as polyphenols, take over the spaces in cells that viruses latch onto. Lemon balm is also one of the most inexpensive medicinal herbs for cold sores on the market.
Anyone who suffered from cold sores would agree that they would never want to go through another outburst again as long as they lived. Unfortunately, once you got the virus you will keep on having these outbursts every time your body’s immune system is down. Since there is no cure for it, you are reduced to finding and using medication that treats this problem symptomatically.
Choose A Natural Cold Sore Remedy Over The OTC Medication
It is true that as soon as you find yourself attacked by cold sores, you would rush to the local pharmacy and buy whatever they offer for relief. Most often than not this would be Neosporin ointment or something similar. Next time you are suffering from cold sores, choose a natural cold sore remedy for faster and safer relief.