10 Best Herbal Teas For Cold Sore

Herbal teas for cold sore are natural remedies made from herbs and plants that help alleviate cold sore symptoms.

These teas contain antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pain, inflammation, and the healing time of cold sores. Examples of herbal teas that help with cold sore include peppermint, chamomile, and licorice root tea.

Drinking these teas has shown to reduce the duration and severity of cold sores, improving daily lives by reducing discomfort and allowing people to resume their normal activities.

The following article describes in detail the most important teas for cold sore, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, teas helps with cold sore because of its antiviral and antibacterial properties.

The tea tree oil, extracted from the plant, contains compounds that inhibit the growth of the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores. When consumed as a tea, the tea tree's active ingredients work to reduce inflammation, soothe the skin, and accelerate the healing process.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of cold sore outbreaks.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia teas that help with cold sore.

• Cineole: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which may help reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks.
• Caryophyllene: As a terpene, caryophyllene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help combat the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the swelling, pain, and redness associated with cold sore outbreaks.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make teas for cold sore.

• Leaves: Rich in antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks.
• Rhyzomes: Contain compounds like cineole, which have antiviral and antibacterial properties, helping to combat the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores.
• Leaves: Also contain compounds like terpinen-4-ol, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, further aiding in the treatment of cold sores.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for cold sore.

1. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried melaleuca alternifolia leaves for every 8 ounces of water.
2. Steep the dried leaves in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the herbal properties.
3. Strain the liquid using a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solid plant material from the tea.
4. Add honey or lemon to taste if desired to enhance the flavor and aroma of the tea.
5. Drink the tea immediately after preparation to experience the full benefits of the herbal infusion.

2. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with cold sore because of its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The tea's flavonoids and triterpenoids help to reduce redness and swelling, while also inhibiting the replication of the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores.

Additionally, calendula's soothing and calming effects can help to ease discomfort and promote the healing process, making it a popular natural remedy for cold sore management and relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with cold sore.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the redness, swelling, and pain associated with cold sores.
• Flavonoids: As a potent antioxidant, quercetin can help combat the viral infection that causes cold sores and reduce the severity of symptoms.
• Naphthoquinones: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antiviral activity, which can help prevent the spread of the herpes simplex virus responsible for cold sores.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for cold sore.

• Flowers: They are commonly used due to their high anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and heal cold sore symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis are used in teas because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have antiviral and antibacterial properties, which aid in reducing the severity of cold sores.
• Roots: The roots of Calendula officinalis are used in teas for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, making them beneficial for treating cold sores.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for cold sore.

1. Harvest 20-30 calendula officinalis flowers at peak bloom for optimal potency and flavor.
2. Dry the calendula flowers in a low-temperature oven at 105-110 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Crush 1-2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep the calendula powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release its properties.
5. Strain and enjoy your herbal tea, serving as a soothing and calming beverage.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, teas helps with cold sore because of its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The aloe vera plant contains compounds that have been shown to reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks. Drinking aloe vera tea can help soothe and calm the affected area, reducing redness and swelling.

Additionally, the antioxidants present in aloe vera tea may help combat the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores, making it a popular natural remedy for this common condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera teas that help with cold sore.

• Acemannan: This polysaccharide has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the swelling and redness associated with cold sores, potentially shortening their duration.
• Aloin: A stilbenoid glycoside, aloin has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help combat the herpes simplex virus and alleviate the symptoms of cold sores.
• Saponins: These triterpenoid compounds have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks by inhibiting the replication of the herpes simplex virus.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make teas for cold sore.

• Leaves: The most commonly used part of Aloe vera, rich in gel and compounds that help soothe and heal cold sore symptoms.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for cold sore.

1. Harvest 5 to 7 fresh aloe vera leaves and cut them into small pieces to prepare for steeping.
2. Combine the aloe vera pieces with 1 quart of boiling water in a large pot to steep for 20 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl to remove solids.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the aloe vera tea and stir until the honey dissolves completely in 5 minutes.
5. Pour the herbal tea into glass jars and refrigerate for up to 3 days before serving chilled.

4. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with cold sore because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The roots of the licorice plant contain compounds such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, which work together to reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks. These compounds help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and swelling, and also exhibit antiviral activity that can help combat the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores.

Regular consumption of licorice teas may provide relief and promote healing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with cold sore.

• Licorice saponins: This compound helps to reduce inflammation and prevent the replication of the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which causes cold sores, by inhibiting viral replication and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Licorice flavonoids: These compounds exhibit antiviral properties that inhibit the replication of HSV and reduce the severity of cold sore symptoms, such as pain and inflammation.
• Licorice terpenoids: These compounds have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities that help to reduce the severity of cold sore symptoms, such as pain and inflammation, and also inhibit the replication of HSV.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for cold sore.

• Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which help to reduce cold sore symptoms.
• Barks: Utilized for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which aid in fighting off infections that cause cold sores.
• Leaves: Employed for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm the skin and reduce pain associated with cold sores.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for cold sore.

1. Harvest the dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra from a trusted supplier or grow your own in a controlled environment.
2. Measure out 1 teaspoon of the dried roots for every 8 ounces of water to be used.
3. Steep the roots in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the active compounds.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool for a few minutes before consumption or add honey to taste.

5. Sideritis congesta

Sideritis congesta, also known as ironweed, teas helps with cold sore because of its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to inhibit the replication of herpes simplex virus, the primary cause of cold sores. Additionally, the tea's soothing and calming effects can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with cold sore outbreaks, providing quick relief and promoting faster healing.

This makes it a popular natural remedy for cold sore sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sideritis congesta teas that help with cold sore.

• Caffeic acid: As a phenolic compound, caffeic acid has shown antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus (HSV), which is responsible for cold sores, by inhibiting viral replication and reducing inflammation.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks by inhibiting HSV replication and modulating the immune response.
• Eupatorin: As a flavonoid, eupatorin has shown anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities, which can help alleviate the symptoms of cold sores, such as pain and inflammation, and reduce the viral load.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of ironweed used to make teas for cold sore.

• Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas due to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas as they contain compounds that exhibit antiviral and antioxidant activities, helping to soothe and heal cold sore lesions.
• Buds: The buds are used to make teas as they contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in the recovery from cold sore infections.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ironweed for cold sore.

1. Harvest 30g of dried flowers and leaves from the plant sideritis congesta.
2. Weigh and combine the dried sideritis congesta material with 30g of dried roots.
3. Combine the herb mixture with 250ml of boiling water in a large heat-resistant glass.
4. Steep the herbal mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid reaches a temperature of 95 degrees fahrenheit.
5. Strain and serve the tea immediately, allowing the liquid to cool to 80 degrees fahrenheit.

6. Hydrastis canadensis

Hydrastis canadensis, also known as goldenseal, teas helps with cold sore because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The berberine content in goldenseal tea has been shown to inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of goldenseal help to reduce swelling and pain associated with cold sores, making it a popular natural remedy for this common condition.

It can also help to speed up the healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis teas that help with cold sore.

• Berberine: A phenolic alkaloid that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity and duration of cold sore symptoms.
• Hydrastine: A phenolic alkaloid that has antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent the spread of the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores.
• Berbamine: A phenolic alkaloid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with cold sores.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make teas for cold sore.

• Roots: They contain berberine, a compound that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and heal cold sore symptoms.
• Barks: They have been traditionally used to make teas that are believed to reduce inflammation and promote the healing of cold sores.
• Leaves: They are often used to make teas that help to reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for cold sore.

1. Measure out 2-3 grams of dried root of hydrastis canadensis for a standard cup of tea.
2. Combine the measured root with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass or ceramic cup.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove the solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature before serving.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with cold sore because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea contains compounds like taraxasterol and flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Additionally, dandelion tea has been found to have antiviral properties, which can help combat the herpes simplex virus responsible for cold sores. The tea's anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties work together to alleviate symptoms and reduce the duration of cold sore outbreaks.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to help manage cold sore symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with cold sore.

• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the swelling and pain associated with cold sore outbreaks.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, luteolin may help alleviate cold sore symptoms by inhibiting the replication of the herpes simplex virus and reducing inflammation.
• Apigenin: Another flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, apigenin can potentially help combat cold sore outbreaks by inhibiting viral replication and reducing inflammation in the affected area.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for cold sore.

• Leaves: Used due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help alleviate cold sore symptoms.
• Flowers: Utilized for their possible antiviral and antioxidant effects, which may aid in reducing cold sore severity and duration.
• Roots: Employed for their potential antiviral and antimicrobial properties, which may help combat the herpes simplex virus responsible for cold sores.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for cold sore.

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers from a pesticide-free area.
2. Rinse the harvested plant material under cold running water for 2-3 minutes to remove dirt.
3. Chop the rinsed taraxacum officinale into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped taraxacum officinale in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the taraxacum officinale tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard solids.

8. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, teas helps with cold sore because of its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The herb contains compounds like quercetin and caffeic acid, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with cold sores. Additionally, its antiviral properties can help combat the herpes simplex virus, the underlying cause of cold sores.

The soothing effects of the tea may also help to calm the skin and reduce the duration of the outbreak.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica teas that help with cold sore.

• Polyphenols: These compounds have antioxidant properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with cold sore outbreaks.
• Lignans: Lignans in Urtica dioica may exhibit antiviral activity, potentially inhibiting the replication of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), the virus responsible for cold sores.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Urtica dioica, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that may help reduce the severity and frequency of cold sore outbreaks.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make teas for cold sore.

• Leaves: They contain anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce pain and swelling associated with cold sores.
• Stems: They have antiviral properties that help to combat the herpes virus that causes cold sores.
• Roots: They contain compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, making them a potential remedy for cold sore relief.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for cold sore.

1. Harvest fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the early morning or late afternoon when they are at their peak potency.
2. Rinse the harvested urtica dioica leaves and stems with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop 1-2 tablespoons of the urtica dioica leaves and stems into small pieces to release their essential oils.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the chopped urtica dioica in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to extract their medicinal properties.
5. Strain the urtica dioica tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids and discard the solids.

9. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with cold sore because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol in peppermint tea helps to reduce the pain and swelling associated with cold sores. Additionally, peppermint tea's antibacterial properties aid in fighting off the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores. The menthol also helps to reduce the itching and discomfort that often accompanies cold sores, providing relief and promoting a faster recovery.

This natural remedy can be an effective way to manage cold sore symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with cold sore.

• Menthol: It helps reduce inflammation and soothe the pain associated with cold sores due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Menthone: It has antiviral properties that may help combat the herpes simplex virus responsible for cold sores.
• Rosmarinic acid: It possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate the symptoms and reduce the severity of cold sore outbreaks.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for cold sore.

• Leaves: Most used part of Mentha x piperita for teas to combat cold sore, as they are rich in menthol and other compounds that provide relief from pain and inflammation.
• Buds: Used in teas, buds are thought to be effective in reducing cold sore symptoms due to their high concentration of menthol and other bioactive compounds.
• Leaves: Also used in teas, young leaves are believed to have antiviral properties that can help speed up the healing process of cold sores.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for cold sore.

1. Choose fresh m x piperita leaves and flowers in the ratio of 2:1 for a balanced tea.
2. Harvest 2 tablespoons of m x piperita leaves and flowers and gently rinse with cold water.
3. Heat 8 ounces of water to 212 degrees fahrenheit for 2-3 minutes to prepare for infusion.
4. Steep the m x piperita leaves and flowers in the hot water for 5-7 minutes to release flavors and oils.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids then let it cool for 2-5 minutes before serving.

10. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with cold sore because of its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The essential oils and flavonoids present in Salvia officinalis have been shown to inhibit the replication of herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores. Additionally, the tea's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with cold sore outbreaks.

By consuming Salvia officinalis teas, individuals may experience a reduction in cold sore frequency and severity, providing relief from the discomfort and embarrassment caused by these painful lesions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with cold sore.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antiviral properties, which can help reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks by inhibiting the replication of the herpes simplex virus.
• Carvacrol: This terpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of infection and alleviate symptoms associated with cold sores, such as pain and inflammation.
• Salvianolic acid: This flavonoid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with cold sore outbreaks, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of complications.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for cold sore.

• Leaves: The leaves of Salvia officinalis contain bioactive compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate cold sore symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers of Salvia officinalis are rich in flavonoids, which may possess antiviral properties that can help combat the herpes simplex virus causing cold sores.
• Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce pain and swelling associated with cold sores.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for cold sore.

1. Harvest fresh leaves from salvia officinalis plants in the morning after the dew has evaporated and before the heat of the day.
2. Rinse the leaves with cold water to remove any dirt or impurities from the plant.
3. Steep the leaves in a teapot with boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the herbal properties.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a tea strainer or fine-mesh sieve to remove the leaves.
5. Serve the tea hot or iced and add honey or sugar to taste depending on personal preference.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for cold sore?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with cold sore is a blend of Echinacea, calendula, and peppermint.

Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting properties, while calendula reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Peppermint tea helps soothe the pain and discomfort associated with cold sores. Drinking a combination of these teas may aid in shortening the duration and reducing the severity of cold sore outbreaks.

It is essential to note that individual results may vary, and consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for best results.