Cold sores are caused by the Herpes Simplex virus. After exposure to the virus it remains in the body and causes a little blister to form most commonly on the lips. These can burn and itch. They then burst and form a yellowish crust. They reoccur when the immune system is lowered, when under stress, after a sunburn or in cold weather. Both natural and conventional medicines can decrease the severity and the duration of an infection but will not eliminate the virus from the body.

•    Rhus tox is a homeopathic remedy that can be helpful to treat cold sores. It helps with the discomfort and aides healing. Take a 6c or 30c potency 3 times daily during an attack.

•    Propolis has been shown to work effectively when applied to cold sores.

•    Argenine is an amino acid that the virus needs to replicate. L-lysine is similar in shape to arginine and so it tricks the virus so that it can’t replicate. It is useful to take to treat and prevent cold sores. Take L-lysine as a supplement at 1000mg daily to keep the virus at bay.

•    Lemon balm can be used herbally to treat viral infections. Take this in a liquid form. This can be taken in tincture form 3 times daily or as a tea to be drunk several times though out the day.

•    Avoid foods that are rich in the amino acid arginine – nuts, peanuts, chocolate, beans and lentils. Eat plenty of natural yoghurt as it contains lysine.