Lemon balm is an organic substance that has been utilized to get rid of cold sores for a long time now. And more recently, studies that took place in Germany have concluded that lemon balm is indeed effective in controlling cold sores. In another study, people who applied lemon balm ointment to their cold sores experienced considerable improvement in inflammation and swelling after just two days. However, there wasn’t much improvement shown in pain and scabbing. Nevertheless, the patients and their doctors reported that they considered the lemon balm ointment to be effective at fighting cold sores.
It works because it has antiviral properties, which means that it fights the infection that is causing the cold sore and doesn’t just cover up the symptoms. Lemon balm contains a high concentration of polyphenols, which appear to minimize herpes outbreaks.
All you have to do is apply the lemon balm straight onto the affected area. Make certain that you reapply regularly throughout the day if you want to completely eliminate your cold sore. It can be applied topically in cream form or you can brew it up as a tea and drink it. You can also use lemon balm as a preventative measure so you avoid future outbreaks.