Sage can also fight cold sores on its own, but the combination with rhubarb tends to work better.
Other types of honey might not work as well as kanuka, so make sure you use this type. You should be able to get it at supermarkets or health food stores.
Lemon balm might also work on outbreaks of genital herpes. However, talk to your doctor before using it on your genitals. [7] X Research source
It’s also helpful to use lip balm with sunblock to protect the sore from the sun. If you use a lip balm or chapstick tube while you have a cold sore, get rid of it after the infection clears up. Otherwise, you could give yourself another infection if you use it again.
Don’t use pure essential oils, as they can be toxic. Similarly, don’t get any of the oils in your mouth because they could be poisonous if you swallow them.
You can also get more lysine in your diet from meat and chicken, fish, eggs, dairy, wheat germ, and avocados. Ask your doctor before you start taking lysine supplements. It could cause problems, especially if you have a cardiovascular or gallbladder disease.
If you use a towel or compress, wash it right away or you could spread the virus to others.
Spicy and salty foods might also irritate the sore. Avoid these as well if they bother you. [15] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Cold sores are also contagious, so you risk spreading the virus around if you keep touching it.
Cold sores are usually more contagious on your first outbreak, so take extra care to wash your hands often and avoid spreading it. [18] X Research source
Mindfulness exercises like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga tend to help reduce stress, so try to make some time for one of these each day. Doing things you enjoy can also reduce your stress, so remember to leave time for your hobbies as well.
