Fight cold sores

Herpes (cold sores) is one of the most common and difficult health issues. According to evidence almost the 70% of population has the virus. Herpes is caused by HSV-1 (Herpes Simplex Virus -1), a highly contagious virus which is mainly transmitted in childhood and for a lifelong.The virus can be trasmitted through direct contact with people or objects that have been contaminated with HSV-1.

  Cold sores are the symptom of viral infection of the oral cavity. At the first contact with HSV-1, the virus invades into nerves and epithelial cells, where it is installed and slowly inactivated by immune system. The virus can remain inactivated for ever, as long as there is a strong immune system.

Symptoms

   Sometimes the herpes is asymptomatic. That is why a large percentage of people who are infected without even knowing it. In case of symptoms they usually appear on the lips, mouth, gums, nostrils and chin. The most common are:

• Small, painful, fluid-filled blisters around the lips or edge of the mouth
• Tingling or burning around the mouth or nose, often a few days before blisters appear
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes in neck

  The onset of symptoms do not always occur at the time of infection but maybe months to years later. They usually subside at the first 7-10 days.

Causes of outbreak

  Usually the main cause of occurrence of cold sores is reduced immune system defense. Most common stressful causes are:

• Anxiety
• Anemia – decreased immunization
• Illness (fever)
• Taking immunosuppressive drugs
• Hormonal changes – menstruation
• Exposure to the sun
• Sun

Treatment

  Although virus is very common, its management is very difficult. Antiviral ointments (e.g. creams with aciclovir) help to rapid virus suppression only when they are administered at the very beggining of symptoms. After, their action is helpful but limited. Many traditional techniques suggest application of pure alcohol apart from antiviral ointments.

Lysine

  Lysine is an essential amino acid because it can not be produced by the body. It participates in the synthesis of several enzymes, antibodies and hormones. Many studies have shown that supplementation of lysine helps in preventing herpes outbreaks because it blocks the reproduction of virus. As lysine is mainly found in animal products (cheese, chicken, eggs, fish), vegans may have lack of lysine. The recommended daily intake of lysine is 3 gr/day.

Propolis

  Propolis is a natural substance produced by bees. It is rich in antioxidants and is one of the most powerful antimicrobial compounds. Propolis can reduce the healing time and pain caused by herpes, compared to conventional antiviral ointments, while also creates a protective layer on the lips.

Zinc

   Zinc is a strong mineral antoxidant which participates in the immune system. Studies have shown that creams with zinc oxide in combination with lysine help in faster wound healing and reduce the symptoms of herpes.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

  Ointments with lemon balm may help treat cold sores. Application helps to reduce redness and swelling or edema in 2-3 days.

Cold sore patches

  The patches are designed to protect the cold sores from contamination. They are usually transparent and contain substances that promote faster healing.

Relief and prevention

• Apply ice or cold patches for pain
• Avoid hot and spicy food
• Avoid salty and sour foods
• Maintaining oral hygiene
• Keep your lips hydrated and do not let them burst.
• Avoid sun and humidity.
• Use sunscreen for lips

In our store you can find a wide variety of supplements and patches for cold sores.