Cold sores, those pesky fluid-filled blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus, can be a real hassle.

They often appear on or near the lips and are triggered by factors like stress, poor sleep, fever, illness, sun exposure, and even menstruation.

While these sores typically fade away in one to two weeks, the herpes virus lingers dormant in nerve cells, ready to strike again when the immune system weakens.

Fear not, though; there are strategies to reduce the risk of recurrent outbreaks!

Prevention:

Boost Your Immune System: Strengthen your defenses with immune-boosting nutrients like vitamins A, C, D, and zinc.

Combat Stress: Since stress can activate the herpes virus, managing stress in your life or finding effective stress-reduction techniques can minimize outbreaks.

Leverage Lysine: This amino acid is a game-changer. It boasts potent antiviral properties and may block arginine, an amino acid the Herpes Simplex virus needs to thrive.

Sun Protection: If sun exposure triggers your cold sores, use lip balm with sunscreen to prevent outbreaks.

Now, what if a cold sore pops up, and you need it gone, pronto? Try these triage tips to alleviate symptoms and expedite the healing process!

Healing an outbreak:

Lysine Applications: You can take oral lysine capsules. But another even more targeted idea is to apply lysine cream several times a day. it can be really effective!

Zinc Oxide Cream: Applied within 24 hours of symptoms, zinc oxide cream, (often found in nappy rash creams and high-quality block out sunscreens), can significantly reduce the duration and severity of cold sores.

Essential Oils: Lemon balm oil and peppermint essential oil, diluted in coconut oil, can be applied at the first tingling sensation to potentially lessen the outbreak.

Don’t struggle on your own!

I’m here to help you overcome poor health, annoying symptoms move swiftly towards achieve radiant health.
Email me at tori@joiawellness.com.au. I’d love to hear from you!