Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, develop on or around the lips due to an infection with the herpes simplex virus. They usually take about a week or two to clear, but several factors can trigger recurrences. Although there is no way to get rid of cold sores overnight, certain treatments can speed up the recovery process. This article lists a few at-home treatment options for cold sores.

1. Lemon balm
The antiviral properties of lemon balm make it an effective at-home treatment for cold sores. It can relieve the swelling and redness associated with blisters and prevent future infections. It’s advisable to use a lip balm that contains at least 1% of lemon balm to fight cold sores. Alternatively, a compress made with an infusion of lemon balm can be used for similar benefits.

2. Ice
Ice might not be a useful remedy to heal cold sores, but it can be an effective treatment against the inflammation and discomfort caused by the blisters. Applying an ice pack directly on the cold sores can provide temporary relief. Using an ice pack wrapped in a towel can help relieve pain and any burning or itching associated with the cold sores.

3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera is immensely popular for its medicinal and healing properties. While research linking aloe vera and cold sores is very limited, it can work as an effective antiviral and anti-inflammatory remedy to soothe the blisters.

4. Sunscreen
The benefits of wearing sunscreen to protect the skin against harmful UV radiation are common knowledge, but wearing sunscreen on the lips can also help lower the frequency of cold sore outbreaks. Plus, it protects the lips when they’re healing from a flare-up. A sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 works best.

5. Reduced stress levels
Stress can negatively affect the body’s immune system, giving the herpes virus a chance to replicate and trigger or aggravate cold sores. Reducing stress levels can go a long way in helping keep cold sore outbreaks at bay. Meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, and regular exercising can reduce stress levels, acting as effective at-home treatment methods for cold sores.

6. Antiviral medications
Medicines that contain docosanol or benzyl alcohol can reduce the duration of cold sore outbreaks. Lysine can be bought over the counter as an oral supplement or cream. That said, it’s best to know that OTC oral supplements are poorly regulated by the FDA. Also, it’s advisable to discuss with a healthcare provider before taking any oral supplement.

7. Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Cold sores can be painful, and these medications can help reduce the pain associated with the condition.

These remedies may not prove helpful for everyone, and prescription antiviral medications are much more effective for the treatment and prevention of cold sore outbreaks.