Cold sore treatment should not be confusing or costly. Read this revealing and timely article. It will give you some excellent cold sore treatment methods that are easy and free, yet produce better results than commercial products.

Cold sores are always the result of the herpes simplex virus when it is actively replicating new virus particles. The end result are one or more blister-like sores on your lip or nose. These fluid-filled sores are extremely unsightly and distressing. They usually come together to form a single, huge sore.

Whilst there is no cure for the herpes virus, you can control the severity and frequency of outbreaks with some useful natural cold sore treatments.

Ice, or any cold object, is a popular cold sore treatment because it really works. Hold ice to the infected area for about 10 minute sessions at two hour intervals. This will reduce swelling, and lessen pain and redness.

Keep in mind, however, to stop using ice once the blister opens up. Then you change to using warm compresses if you want to greatly speed up healing.

A wet bag of tea will also be helpful. Hold the tea bag to the sore area for several minutes every 2 hours.

Also, it is an excellent idea to warm up the tea bag (do not burn yourself) and use it as a hot compress. Do this as 20 minute sessions at least four times each day to help relieve the troublesome symptoms.

Witch hazel is an excellent dryer and will encourage faster healing when used to dehydrate active blisters. Essential oils, such as peppermint or lemon, or the gel from fresh Aloe Vera can give soothing relief from your blisters.

Try putting common sugar on the sore. Sugar is quite effective against bacteria, virus and fungal infections, and will help dry up the sore. Honey actually does a better job and is easier to apply.

Herbs frequently used for cold sore treatment include peppermint, sage, garlic and Valerian root.

Many of these actually offer up a natural source of anti-viral medication, which really helps with a speedy healing experience. Some also contain nutrients that greatly enhance your immune system for higher resistance to viral attacks.

Echinacea is a powerful herb and is known for its ability to quickly dehydrate cold sores. As an internal remedy, it is well proven against virus and bacterial infections.

Healing really accelerates when your sores dry up. Keeping the area well cleansed and the blister as dry as possible will help to a great degree. When a blister opens up, you are susceptible to a secondary bacterial infection. This is the very reason why continuous cleansing is critical for your best success.

Drinking sufficient water each day helps cleanse and strengthen your body in its fight against this virus. Some folks stay away from alcohol because they find it can trigger their outbreaks, although wine can actually help.

Alcohol tends to dry your body out and lower your immunity, making it easier for cold sores to develop.

If you find yourself getting a lot of cold sores, you can slow them down dramatically with just a few changes in your habits.

One of the biggest triggers of cold sores is stress. Explore methods of lowering your stress levels - regular exercise is excellent because it releases the body's natural tranquilizers. Try to limit sugar and other foods that cause acid in your system.

The herpes simplex virus family is dangerously contagious so there are some cautions to observe when close to other people.

Do not kiss or share drinks, silverware or towels with anyone who has an active outbreak. Lack of care and cleanliness will often be the cause of virus spread. Once you are aware that a sore is developing, cleanse your hands regularly and use care not to spread the virus to other parts of your body.

Without a doubt, however, the easiest and best cold sore treatment is preventing them from occurring. Following a healthy way of living is always wise, and especially helpful in keeping outbreaks to a minimum.

It is smart to try out a number of cold sore treatments and keep the ones that deliver the best results for you. There are some very good web sites where you will find a lot more cold sore treatment ideas, along with exact directions for best success.

Remember, watch what you eat, get some regular exercise, limit alcohol intake, take some good daily vitamins and get adequate rest. All these things will enable you immune system to work at peak performance and lessen the quantity and severity of your cold sores.