Cold sores are well known as fever blisters, which appear around the mouth. It may cause due the virus called herpes simplex virus (HSV). Essential oils for cold sores help to treat and reduce the symptoms.
Table of Contents
Essential Oils for Cold Sores
1. Peppermint oil
One study shows that peppermint oil can inhibit the activity of herpes virus-like type 1 and type 2.
The analysis concluded that peppermint oil might be useful in treating infection due to herpes.
Dilute the peppermint oil with any carrier oil like coconut oil and apply it on the cold sore.
Read: Peppermint Oil Benefits
2. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is traditionally used to treat various skin conditions including bruises. I might not effect on the virus, but one study says that lavender oil may reduce the pain and inflammation due to cold sores
If you using lavender oil for the first time then dilute the oil with a carrier oil to avoid a skin reaction.
You can use a few drops of undiluted lavender oil to treat cold sores by applying directly to the affected area.
Read: Lavender Oil for Skin
3. Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus oil could help treat cold sores because of the anti-inflammatory ability.
A journal says that Eucalyptus oil may reduce the inflammation and enhance the healing process of the cold sore.
Always dilute the eucalyptus oil with carrier oil here using on ski to prevent irritation. If you get any reaction then stop using it.
4. Chrysanthemum oil
Research says that chrysanthemum oil may reduce the symptoms caused by herpes simplex virus as it might not treat permanently.
It may allergize to you, best to use a small amount on skin before gin to use on the cold sore. Always dilute the oil before applying it to the affected area.
Read: Essential Oil for Wrinkles
5. Chamomile oil
According to a study, Chamomile oil avoid the absorption of the herpes virus in the cells. It also helps to treats drug-resistant strains of herpes.
Dilute the chamomile oil with any carrier oil before using it on the skin.
6. Clove oil
The impact of clove oil has analyzed the herpes simplex virus in addition to treating other viruses, such as hepatitis C.
Clove Oil might have an antibacterial and antimicrobial effect on the herpes simplex virus. Additionally, it may decrease pain related to a cold sore. It is one of the best essential oils for cold sores.
Clove oil might irritate you if you apply directly, dilute the oil with coconut oil for less skin creation.
Read: Benefits of Clove Oil
7. Hyssop oil
Research on hyssop oil says that it helps to reduce viral activity. Apply the diluted hyssop oil on the cold sore.
8. Tea tree oil
According to the International Journal of Dermatology, tea tree oil can kill the herpes simplex virus and reduce infection.
Before using tea tree oil for cold sores, dilute the oil with carrier il to minimize the skin reaction. Tea tree oil is one of the best essential oils for cold sores.
Users must dilute it with a carrier oil to lower the odds of skin irritation.
9. Thyme oil
Thyme oil examined to ascertain its capacity to take care of herpes simplex virus type 1. A study shows that the essential oils might fight against the virus.
The results of a study suggested that vital oil shows antiviral activity against the virus.
Thyme oil must be diluted with a carrier oil before put on the cold sore.
Read: Rosemary Oil for Skin
10. Lemon balm oil
Lemon vera oil that can be known as Melissa infusion might have an antiviral effect in the herpes simplex virus.
One analysis suggested that the oil prevents the herpes virus from penetrating cells.
Apply the diluted oil on the affected area 3 to 4 times a day for a better result with a cotton swab.
Risks
- If you use it directly essential to treat cold sores that might irritate your skin.
- Overuse of essential oil on the skin may lead to skin weaken.
- Make sure if your skin is sensitive or allergy then do a spot test and use it. If you get any skin reaction then stop using it.
Read: Essential Oils for Bruises
Bottom Line
These essential oils for cold ma help to reduce cold cores symptoms. If the symptom is worsening then make an appointment immediately.
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4393490/
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2014.01.013
- https://doi.org/10.1211/jpp/60.11.0017
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2008.04.018
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/13678235
- http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/13880209.2014.936944
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4393490/
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2014.01.013
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/279710777_Effect_of_essential_oils_on_the_enveloped_viruses_Antiviral_activity_of_oregano_and_clove_oils_on_herpes_simplex_virus_type_1_and_Newcastle_disease_virus
- http://aac.asm.org/content/51/5/1859.full
- https://www.healthline.com/health/essential-oils-for-cold-sores