Cold sores and herpes
Overview
Cold sores, also known as oral herpes, are small fluid-filled blisters caused primarily by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), though HSV-2 (commonly associated with genital herpes) can also affect the mouth and surrounding areas [1,2]. After the initial infection, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells and may reactivate in response to stress, fatigue, sun exposure, or immune suppression. Outbreaks can cause discomfort, tingling, or burning sensations, followed by visible sores around the lips or face. While antiviral medications can reduce the duration and severity of outbreaks, Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Healthcare (TCIH) approaches can support the body’s natural defences, promote faster healing, and help reduce recurrence by addressing immunity, stress, and lifestyle factors [3,4].
Common Causes and Contributing Factors
Cold sore flare-ups are often triggered by factors that weaken the immune system or irritate the affected area [2,5]:
- Weakened immunity – Illness, fatigue, or chronic stress can allow the virus to reactivate.
- Emotional stress – Heightened cortisol levels suppress immune response.
- Sun exposure or UV light – Can trigger outbreaks on the lips.
- Hormonal changes – Menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can influence recurrence.
- Nutritional deficiencies – Low levels of zinc, lysine, or vitamin C may reduce resilience.
- Skin trauma – Cuts, dental procedures, or cracked lips can activate the virus.
Signs and Symptoms
Cold sores often follow a predictable cycle and may include [6]:
- Tingling, itching, or burning sensation around the lips or mouth
- Small clusters of fluid-filled blisters
- Pain, swelling, or redness in the affected area
- Oozing and crust formation as sores heal
- In some cases, fever, swollen glands, or sore throat occur during the first infection
Outbreaks usually resolve within 7–10 days, though frequency varies between individuals. In genital herpes, sores may appear on or around the genitals, buttocks, or thighs and can recur episodically.
Holistic and TCIH Approaches
Integrative care for herpes focuses on supporting immune function, reducing viral activity, and restoring emotional and physical balance:
- Nutrition and Naturopathy – Diets rich in lysine (fish, legumes, vegetables) and low in arginine (nuts, chocolate, oats) may reduce outbreak frequency. Supplements such as zinc, vitamin C, and lysine have been studied for immune modulation [7].
- Herbal Medicine – Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), licorice root, echinacea, and St John’s wort have demonstrated antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects and may soothe lesions or shorten recovery time [8].
- Aromatherapy – Essential oils like tea tree, peppermint, and lavender (properly diluted) may assist in topical healing and comfort.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine – Views herpes as a manifestation of internal heat or damp-heat imbalance; acupuncture and cooling herbs may reduce inflammation and recurrence [9].
- Ayurveda – Focuses on reducing Pitta dosha (heat) with cooling herbs such as neem and aloe vera, alongside cleansing and restorative therapies.
- Mind–Body and Stress Reduction – Practices like meditation, yoga, and breathwork may help prevent recurrence by regulating the nervous and immune systems [10].
- Energy Therapies – Reiki and gentle bodywork may support relaxation, lymphatic flow, and resilience during recovery.
Self-Care and Lifestyle Practices
Gentle daily routines can help manage and prevent outbreaks:
- Keep lips moisturised and protect against UV exposure with lip balm containing SPF.
- Practise good hygiene — avoid touching sores and wash hands frequently.
- Avoid sharing utensils, razors, or lip products during outbreaks.
- Manage stress through mindfulness, grounding, or time in nature.
- Get adequate sleep to support immune repair.
- Apply a cool compress or aloe vera gel for comfort during active phases.
- Support gut and immune health with probiotic-rich and antioxidant foods.
When to Seek Professional Support
Seek medical advice if cold sores are frequent, severe, or accompanied by fever or eye irritation. Pregnant women and individuals with weakened immunity should always consult their healthcare provider for antiviral or supportive care.
A verified SoulAdvisor practitioner specialising in naturopathy, herbal medicine, acupuncture, Ayurveda, or mind–body therapies can provide complementary care. Integrative approaches help strengthen the body’s resilience, soothe inflammation, and empower individuals to manage triggers holistically for long-term balance and confidence.
Therapies that may assist cold sores and herpes:
References
1. Cold sore. Wikipedia; 2025.
2. Toulabi, T, Delfan, B, Rashidipour, M, & colleagues. The efficacy of olive leaf extract on healing herpes simplex virus labialis: A randomized double-blind study. EXPLORE (NY); 2021.
3. Al-Hallak, M. A. G, Hsaian, J. A, & Aljoujou, A. A. Evaluating the effectiveness of topical olive leaf extract emulgel in managing recurrent herpes labialis: A randomized triple-blinded clinical study. Scientific Reports; 2024.
4. Jautová, J, Zelenková, H, Drotarová, K, Nejdková, A, Grünwaldová, B, & Hladiková, M. Lip creams with propolis special extract GH 2002 (0.5%) versus aciclovir 5% for herpes labialis (vesicular stage): Randomized, controlled double-blind study. Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift; 2019.
5. Arenberger, P, et al. Propolis (0.5%) lip balm vs aciclovir 5% in herpes labialis: Randomized single-blind multicenter trial. Current Therapeutic Research; 2018.
6. Polansky, H, & Bossche, J. V. A narrative review of alternative symptomatic treatments for herpes simplex virus (e.g., botanicals such as lemon balm, propolis, zinc). Viruses; 2023.
7. Armour, M, Semprini, A, Ee, C, et al. Topical herbal + mineral formulation for herpes labialis: Protocol for a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial. BMJ Open; 2020.
8. Hobbs, A, et al. Honey and propolis vs acyclovir for HSV lesions: Randomized, controlled clinical comparisons (symptom relief & healing). Journal of Ethnopharmacology; 2021.
