What is the Best Essential Oil for a Cold Sore

Cold sores are also called fever blisters, and they can be painful, itchy and embarrassing. As soon as they appear, usually in the corner of the mouth, it’s time to start looking for a remedy for the discomfort. The tiny blisters are caused by the herpes simplex virus, which lies dormant in the body and flares up if it is triggered. Once the virus is in the body several factors can cause a flare-up. Triggers can vary between individuals, but stress is often the culprit. However, sunlight, hormonal changes or being sick or exhausted can trigger an outbreak. Some people tend to be more prone to developing cold sores than others. There are a lot of remedies people have tried, but one of the most effective and all-natural ways to get rid of them is to find the best essential oil for a cold sore.

Causes of Cold Sores

The herpes simplex virus often enters the body through a break in the skin, usually on the lips, or inside the mouth. The first sign is typically inflammation or pain, it can also be accompanied by a fever or a sore throat. Herpes simplex is highly contagious and can be transferred easily from close contact with another person. The best essential oil for a cold sore is going to have specific properties including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, analgesic, antioxidant and antiseptic qualities.

Top Ten Essential Oils for Cold Sores

There are a lot of EOs that are effective at speeding the healing of cold sores. Among the many that can be used to fight this viral infection, here are the top ten best essential oil for cold sore choices:

• Eucalyptus EO
• Frankincense EO
• Hyssop EO
• Thyme EO
• Tea Tree EO
• Oregano EO
• Lavender EO
• Peppermint EO
• Ginger EO
• Chamomile EO

5 Effective Recipes for the Best Essential Oil for a Cold Sore

1. Tea Tree Oil:Mix four drops of tea tree oil with a tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil. Dip a cotton swab in the mixture and apply directly to the affected area. The remaining mixture can be stored in a glass jar and applied several times a day until the sore is gone.
2. Synergistic blend of essential oils:Combine the following oils with 2 ounces of sweet almond oil. Using a Q-tip or cotton ball, apply the mix to the affected area daily until it is gone.

• 5 drops of lavender EO
• 8 drops of Tea Tree EO
• 6 drops of chamomile EO
• 3 drops of lemon essential oil
• 8 drops of geranium EO

3. Prevent the sore from worsening:To prevent cold sores from worsening, you can dilute any of these oils with the carrier oil of your choice: rose geranium, bergamot, Roman chamomile, eucalyptus or Melissa. You can mix as many as six drops of oil with 5 ml of your selected carrier oil. Blend it well, then apply the mixture around the sore using a cotton-tipped applicator. Each person’s body may respond differently to essential oil treatments, so you may want to try a few to see what works best for you.
4. Stop the outbreak:When you experience the first symptom of a cold sore, mix tea tree essential oil with sweet almond oil, or another essential oil of your choice. Apply the mixture to the affected area several times each day. IF the pain is intense, ad some diluted lavender oil before applying.
5. Immediate Relief:Mix this blend, then apply it directly to existing cold sores. If they are cracked or dry, add an ounce of sweet almond oil. Shake the mixture well prior to each use. Combine these essential oils together in a glass container:

• 3 drops of bergamot EO
• 3 drops of Roman Chamomile EO
• 3 to 4 drops of Geranium EO
• 3 drops of eucalyptus EO
• 3 drops of lavender EO
• 2 drops of tea tree EO
• 3 drops of lemon balm (or Melissa)

Using Carrier Oils in Cold Sore Remedies with Essential Oils

Even though the best essential oil for a cold sore is an effective remedy, it’s important to remember that EOs can irritate the skin. If they are overused, they can cause some skin damage. It’s also possible, though rare, to develop an allergic reaction when using them. Signs of an allergic reaction include itching, redness or hives. If you develop a reaction, discontinue their use immediately. To avoid skin irritation or reactions, dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin. Some of the most common carrier oils to use include:

• Coconut oil
• Sweet almond oil
• Olive oil

The ratio at which a carrier oil is used may vary between essential oils. Most commonly, one ounce of a carrier oil is used with 2 to 5 drops of an essential oil.

Use Caution with Essential Oils

Using the best essential oil for a cold sore is an effective treatment strategy, but it’s important to take the herpes simplex virus seriously. This is especially true if the symptoms are spreading to other areas of the body. Don’t forget the potency of essential oils and the need for them to be diluted. Use caution and be sure to refrain from overuse on cold sores. These painful areas erupt on mucous membranes which can be sensitive. If your discomfort or symptoms are not eliminated in two weeks’ time, seek medical attention.