When we talk about health and summer, we usually talk about protecting the skin or urinary tract infections, but a fairly common problem during these months is cold sores.
Cold sores are caused by the Herpes Simplex virus, which once you contract it remains dormant in your body and gives symptoms when our immune system is weakened, during times of excessive tiredness, stress, when you have another illness, and after sunburn.
Although you get used to cold sores as a part of life, they can be quite bothersome, so preventing them is ideal. To prevent them, keep your immune system strong and protect your lips on sunny days with hats that cover your entire face and/or sunscreen.
How to treat a cold sore naturally
- As soon as you notice the first symptoms—tingling and discomfort in the area of the lip where they usually appear—treat the area with a remedy containing lysine, tea tree oil, and/or propolis. Aprolis Herpropol is my favorite, and we have it in our herbal shops in Madrid.
- Take an immune-boosting supplement like D-Fense or Green Tree Immunity , or take a high dose of Vitamin C.
- If you're not already taking them, add probiotics to your diet, which help keep your immune system strong.
- Go to bed early and eat healthily
- Once the cold sore is in its final stage, when a scab forms, protect and nourish your lips with shea butter .
Herpes Simplex is a contagious virus, so we recommend washing your hands before and after eating, and trying not to touch your lips.
If you get cold sores frequently, ask your doctor to find out the cause and if they recommend taking a lysine supplement.