Cold sores are caused by the presence of the herpes simplex virus in the body. Herpes shows up as blisters, which are moist and itchy…usually on the lips, or in the groin area.
Unfortunately, the herpes virus stays with the body once it has invaded. So outbreaks will come and go, depending on many factors, including being under a lot of stress.
In order to dry out the lesions left by herpes, try making a paste from cornstarch or baking soda, which will also help with the itching. To slow down the number of outbreaks, it may also be useful to make some dietary changes.
Suggested dietary changes.
Try eating a probiotic yogurt every day for a start, as the probiotics may boost the immune system. A strong immune system will always reduce the effect of a viral infection.
It may also be wise to try a zinc supplement. Some studies have shown that by increasing zinc levels by about 30 milligrams per day, the number of outbreaks is slowed down. Using a coating of zinc cream to the affected areas, has been described as a method for treating the herpes virus.
A diet rich in vitamin C helps speed up the process of healing the herpes sores when they appear. Make sure to eat plenty of raw yellow or red peppers. They are great as side dishes at dinner, or for a bedtime snack. Colorful fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, kiwi fruit, and of course oranges, will really help increase the vitamin C you need.
Some herbs have been shown to have good antiviral properties. Eating herbs such as echinacea and elderberry are recommended. These two herbs may reduce the symptoms of herpes. And by boosting the immune system, they may help reduce the incidence of new outbreaks.