The simple herpes blisters on the lips are unpleasant, but harmless, a treatment of herpes can then itself. The situation is different if the infestation is very pronounced, the eyes or genitals are involved or the blisters are accompanied by a strong feeling of illness: Then a visit to the doctor is advised. Babies or children with blisters in the mouth should also see a doctor soon. How can you get rid of herpes quickly? Tips on therapy with medications and home remedies can be found below.
Therapy of herpes: virustatic
As active substances for the treatment of herpes, aciclovir and penciclovir are available, which can be purchased over-the-counter in pharmacies as ointment or cream. The drugs introduce a false building block into the herpes viruses and thus inhibit their multiplication.
The earlier you start treatment, the better. Therefore, you should start applying cream to the affected area several times a day as soon as the first symptoms of herpes appear. An antiseptic can be used supportively if the herpes turns yellowish, because this can be an indication that bacteria have settled on the herpes blisters.
Home remedies for herpes
The range of home remedies that are supposed to help against cold sores is wide: a wide variety of substances are supposed to relieve the itching and pain, dry out and/or disinfect the blisters, and thus shorten the time it takes for them to heal. However, most of the remedies have not been scientifically researched and what helps one person may not show any effect on another.
The following home remedies are often recommended and can be applied at the first feeling of tightness:
- Toothpaste
- Honey, especially Manuka honey
- Tea tree oil (caution: never apply undiluted on the skin or directly on the blisters).
- Propolis
- Aloe vera
- Soda powder
- Onion
- Lemon juice, whipped cream
- An ice cube beaten into a clean handkerchief, which is used several times a day to briefly dab the appropriate area
What really helps against herpes?
In laboratory tests, blackcurrant and sage in combination with rhubarb and peppermint proved effective. The practical test has also passed the lemon balm or lemon balm: It has proven effective in several studies. It inhibits the penetration of the herpes viruses into the cell and thus hinders the spread of infection; preventively, it should also prevent a new “blooming”.
Melissa tincture against herpes
You can buy a tincture of lemon balm as a ready-made ointment in the pharmacy, but you can also prepare it yourself: pour half a liter of boiling water over 50 grams of leaves, strain after ten minutes and let it cool.
If blisters are already present, zinc paste, healing earth or black tea help to dry them out; fatty ointments improve the healing of the crusts. Taking zinc is also sometimes recommended.
Soft laser treatment for herpes
Good experiences have been made in a study with soft laser treatment. This is painless, is performed by an expert (for example, an acupuncturist), and is useful for patients with frequently recurring attacks of cold sore. Presumably, the therapy stimulates immune cells.
What else can be done?
In addition to early treatment, it is also important to prevent infection of others and spread, and to strengthen the immune system:
- Refrain from kissing or sharing dishes, towels, lipsticks or napkins for some time.
- Be careful not to spread the infection through your fingers, by smearing the ointment or by licking your lips to areas that are still healthy.
- Strengthen your defenses by getting enough sleep and a healthy diet.
- Use a lip balm with SPF to protect the skin from sun exposure.
