What You Need To Know About Herbs For Cold 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.
You can drink lemon balm tea, take capsules or make your own compress from the dregs of the lemon balm tea. You can mix in mint to improve the taste. If you buy the dried herbs, than you can make your own tea with a teaspoon of dried herbs to a cup of water. Let is infuse for ten minutes. Drink the tea. When the herbs for cold sores have cooled, apply them directly to your sores.
The mint family is also a well known herbicide, so mixing mint or other members of the mint family can help not only improve taste but help with your cold sores. Other herbs in the mint family include hyssop, oregano, rosemary, sage, thyme and self-heal. There are some ready-made ointments with the mint family in them, but read the label to see if it can be used around your mouth.
Raspberry Leaves
This is the best herb for cold sores according to Earl Mindell, Ph.D, author of Earl Mindell's Herb Bible. Raspberry leaves (Rubus idaeus) are used in the same ways that lemon balm is. Raspberry leaf tea is also very helpful in easing any sore throats which sometimes can accompany cold sores. Pregnant women must avoid this herb, as it can cause uterine contractions.
Echinacea
This powerful herb for cold sores is used to treat any kind of viral infection, not just the herpes virus. There are many tinctures, teas, capsules and products made with echinacea. You must follow the directions carefully - even when drinking echinacea herbal tea. Your body needs a two week break in between treatments.
