About Cold Sores

Dear Dr. Helen, I have frequent outbreaks of cold sores, always at the worst times! Help!!
Christine, Duluth, MN

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex 1 virus. This virus exists in the body more or less in a dormant state, but from time to time it passes to the skin and erupts into cold sores, often due to stress.

TO PREVENT COLD SORES:

1) Take Lysine (I address this in my book, Helen Pensanti M.D.’s Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements). Take 1,200-3,000 mg. per day in divided doses with meals. This inhibits the virus.

2) Eat foods high in lysine such as vegetables, legumes, fish, turkey and chicken.

3) Avoid foods that are high in arginine, as this encourages outbreaks. These include chocolate, nuts and seeds.

TREATING EXISTING LESIONS

1) They will heal in 10-14 days on their own.

2) Some topical creams will speed healing. Look for creams that contain lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). Apply directly to the sore every two hours until it is healed.

3) Studies have shown that aloe vera or zinc creams can help. Apply every two hours.

4) Always wash your hands after touching a cold sore so you do not re-infect yourself in another area.

5) A new study showed that the three most popular herpes drugs on the market reduce the duration of a cold sore by only about one day, so you might want to save your money!

Cordially,

Helen Pensanti M.D.