Cold Sore: 12 Best Ways To Treat (According to Professionals)

Propolis

Another possible cold sore treatment is propolis. According to a large body of research, this natural cold sore treatment can strengthen the immune system and speed recovery from viral infections.

Honey bees make propolis, a sticky, resinous substance that they utilize to repair and fortify their hive, from tree bud resin, beeswax, and saliva. People relied on it as a go-to treatment for cold sores for years. It is especially suitable because it may fight the virus causing the sores and hasten the skin’s recovery time.

After receiving propolis treatment, the survivability of HSV was evaluated in a placebo-controlled experiment. According to antiviral research, propolis has a strong virucidal (virus-killing) effect against the Herpes simplex virus. Running the tests at room temperature was essential for producing results that would hold up under real-world circumstances. 

Additionally, it made it less able to enter the host cells. Propolis appears to hinder the ability of the viral envelope’s particular glycoproteins to bind to and enter human cells.

Using creams and ointment with 0.5% up to 3% propolis several times a day can help reduce pain and treat cold sores faster. Rinsing the mouth using a rinse containing propolis and consuming propolis orally can also help in healing cold sores caused by cancer medications.