Cold sores usually appear in a big cluster around the mouth, and they also leave an evident scar. The intensity of cold sores can range from mild to severe, and people who get cold sores know how nasty they can get. Thankfully, there are OTC medications and home remedies to treat cold sores. Read on to know more.

1. Apple cider vinegar
This magical kitchen ingredient comes in handy for so many remedies; you would want to store a gallon of it! Apple cider vinegar can treat cold sores and blisters by fighting bacteria and viruses efficiently. Although, remember to dilute ACV before applying it.

2. Lemon balm
This is easily available at any medical or online store. Lemon balm helps ward off redness and prevents cold sore from recurring. Many people prefer using chapsticks replete with bald lemon extracts.

3. Tea tree oil
If you’re a fan of this essential oil, you’d have some of it easily available at home. This oil boasts a splendid aroma and is used in many therapeutic activities, including combating the cold sore virus. Cold sores are caused due to the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Again, you dilute tea tree oil with water before directly applying it to the skin.

4. Aloe vera gel
If one has direct access to organic aloe vera gel, then the best way to use it is to store it in the fridge for a while and apply it cold directly to the blister. Store-bought aloe gel can also be stored in the fridge to enjoy the cooling effect. But the main benefit of using this gel is that it is anti-inflammatory.

5. Kanuka honey
Many studies claim that this bee product has some promising effects on treating cold sores. This honey is extracted from the manuka tree in New Zealand, and that’s why it can be a little pricey. If you already have some of it in the house, you could definitely use it to treat blisters resulting from cold sores. Research says it is supposed to be as effective as acyclovir.

6. Peppermint oil
Another essential oil comes to the rescue. Not only does this oil have soothing, anti-inflammatory effects that generally reduce redness, but also it has components that help combat HSV-1 and HSV-2 viruses. So, peppermint oil can be useful to treat cold sores and prevent them from coming back. Again, remember to dilute the oil with water before application.

7. Liquorice root
The root of the flowering plant possesses some aromatic properties that can be put to great use. This one’s especially applicable here as it contains glycyrrhizic acid that helps fight HSV cells and resulting cold sores.

Using these remedies, you can treat cold sores at home. However, for a severe breakout, consult your doctor at the earliest.