10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Cold Sore

Herbal tinctures for cold sore are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and botanicals that have natural anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

These tinctures help to soothe and heal cold sores by reducing redness, swelling, and pain. Examples of herbal tinctures that aid in cold sore relief include Lemon Balm, Aloe Vera, and Echinacea.

By using these tinctures, individuals can experience reduced healing time, fewer recurrence, and a significant improvement in overall quality of life, allowing them to manage the discomfort and embarrassment associated with cold sores.

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

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree tinctures helps with cold sore because of its potent antiviral properties that directly target the HSV-1 virus, which causes cold sores.

The tannins and flavonoids present in tea tree oil work together to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and speed up healing time.

Additionally, tea tree tinctures' antimicrobial properties help combat secondary infections, promoting a swift recovery from the cold sore outbreak.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Cineole: Helps to reduce inflammation and ease pain associated with cold sores by its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Linalool: Exhibits antimicrobial activity, which can help combat the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores and speed up the healing process.
• Melaleuca alternifolia oil's phenolic compounds: Show antiviral and antibacterial properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of cold sores and support the immune system in fighting off the infection.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are the primary source of Tea Tree Oil, which is used for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties.
• Stems: Stems of Melaleuca alternifolia contain a high concentration of essential oils, which are used in various applications.
• Barks: The bark of Melaleuca alternifolia is also used, although to a lesser extent, for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20 to 30 fresh leaves and flowers of melaleuca alternifolia at peak oil production for best results.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm place for 2 to 3 weeks to reduce moisture content.
3. Combine 1 part dried plant material with 2 parts high-proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow for extraction.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and transfer it to a clean glass bottle.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with cold sore because of its unique composition, which includes anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The aloe vera gel contains anthraquinones, such as aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and inhibit the growth of the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores.

When applied topically or taken orally in tincture form, these compounds can help soothe and calm the affected area, reducing pain, redness, and swelling while promoting faster healing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a phenolic compound found in Aloe vera, helps reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of new cold sore lesions by inhibiting the replication of the herpes simplex virus.
• Aloin: Aloin, a anthraquinone glycoside, has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help alleviate symptoms of cold sores, such as pain, itching, and redness, by reducing inflammation and preventing the virus from spreading.
• Vitamins and minerals: The vitamins and minerals present in Aloe vera, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, have antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the severity and duration of cold sore symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The gel inside the leaves of Aloe vera is used to create tinctures due to its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which help soothe and heal cold sore symptoms.
• Stems: The inner gel of the stems is also used to make tinctures, as it contains similar anti-inflammatory and antiviral compounds that aid in reducing the severity and duration of cold sores.
• Barks: The bark of Aloe vera is sometimes used to create tinctures, primarily for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate pain and swelling associated with cold sores.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100% organic aloe vera leaves and wash them thoroughly with cold filtered water.
2. Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and dry them in a warm dark place for 2 weeks.
3. Combine 1 part dried aloe vera with 2 parts high proof neutral grain spirit in a glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 months shaking the jar every week.
5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter and discard the solids then transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle.

3. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with cold sore because its antiviral properties help to combat the herpes simplex virus that causes these painful lesions.

The tincture's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling and pain, while its antibacterial agents prevent secondary infections from developing. Additionally, Kansas coneflower's natural astringent properties help to dry up the blister and crust, promoting faster healing and reducing the duration of the outbreak.

As a result, incorporating Kansas coneflower tinctures into your cold sore treatment routine can lead to quicker relief and reduced frequency of occurrences.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with cold sore.

• Alkylamides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with cold sore outbreaks, making them a key component in soothing soreness and discomfort.
• Iridoids: Iridoids, such as echinacoside, have antiviral properties that help combat the herpes simplex virus responsible for cold sores, reducing the severity and frequency of outbreaks.
• Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate the symptoms of cold sores, including redness, swelling, and pain, promoting faster healing and recovery.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for cold sore.

• Roots: Rich in alkylamides and other compounds with anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
• Stems: Contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
• Leaves: Rich in phenolic compounds and other antioxidants that can help combat viral infections.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of dried roots of the plant in the fall after the first frost and dry them completely.
2. Combine 1 part of the dried roots with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Seal the jar and store it in a dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking it every day.
4. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the liquid tincture into dark glass bottles and store it in a cool dark place, label and date it.

4. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with cold sore because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The herb's flavonoids, such as luteolin and apigenin, have been shown to inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores. Additionally, pot marigold's antioxidants help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort associated with cold sore outbreaks.

By reducing the severity and duration of symptoms, pot marigold tinctures can provide effective relief from cold sores, promoting a faster recovery and minimizing the risk of complications.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Carotenoids: These pigments have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with cold sores.
• Flavonoids: As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, Quercetin can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of cold sore lesions.
• Triterpenoids: This compound has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat viral infections that cause cold sores, while also reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which help soothe and heal cold sore lesions.
• Leaves: They are used for their antimicrobial properties, which aid in fighting off infections that cause cold sores.
• Roots: They are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and promote healing of cold sore lesions.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest calendula officinalis flowers in their peak bloom at dawn on a dry day for optimal potency and quality.
2. Dry the freshly harvested flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Combine 1 part dried calendula officinalis flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar every day or two.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate glass container discarding the solids.

5. Hamamelis virginiana

American witch hazel tinctures helps with cold sore because of its antiviral properties, which enable it to target the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores.

The tincture's astringent and anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce swelling and itching associated with cold sores, while its antibacterial properties prevent bacterial infections from developing.

Additionally, witch hazel's ability to stimulate lymphatic drainage helps to promote the removal of toxins and waste products from the skin, further supporting the body's natural healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana tinctures that help with cold sore.

• Tannins: Tannins in Hamamelis virginiana help to reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Hamamelis virginiana have been shown to possess antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate cold sore symptoms.
• Hamamelitannin: Hamamelitannin, a unique tannin found in Hamamelis virginiana, has been found to have potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to heal cold sores and reduce the frequency of recurrences.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make tinctures for cold sore.

• Leaves: Hamamelis virginiana leaves are used because they contain hamamelitannin, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and fight off viral infections.
• Roots: Hamamelis virginiana roots are used due to their ability to stimulate the immune system and fight off viral infections, making them effective in treating cold sores.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for cold sore.

1. Harvest 50g of dried hamamelis virginiana leaves and twigs from a trusted supplier or your garden.
2. Combine the harvested material with 500ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
3. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks shaking occasionally.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
5. Label and store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

6. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with cold sore because of its antiviral properties that target the herpes simplex virus responsible for causing cold sores.

The tincture's flavonoids and isoflavones help to reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling associated with cold sore outbreaks. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to inhibit viral replication, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.

By applying the tincture directly to the affected area, it helps to soothe and heal cold sores faster, providing quick relief from discomfort and unsightly lesions.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhetinic acid: This triterpenoid saponin helps with cold sores by reducing inflammation and suppressing the replication of herpes simplex virus, thus alleviating symptoms.
• Licoricidin: This phenolic compound exhibits antiviral properties, specifically inhibiting the replication of herpes simplex virus, which helps to reduce the duration and severity of cold sore outbreaks.
• Glycosides: These compounds have been found to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and heal cold sore lesions, reducing pain and discomfort.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce cold sore symptoms.
• Barks: They are also used because they contain similar compounds to the roots, providing additional relief from cold sore pain and inflammation.
• Leaves: They are occasionally used for their lesser-known properties, which may still offer some benefits in reducing cold sore severity.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of fresh or 50-100 grams of dried roots in the morning when the dew is still present.
2. Wash the roots with cold water to remove dirt and debris then pat them dry with a clean cloth.
3. Combine the cleaned roots with 50% ethanol as a solvent in a 1:5 ratio by weight in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with cold sore because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort associated with cold sores.

The tannins present in dandelion extract also possess antiviral properties that inhibit the growth of herpes simplex virus, the causative agent of cold sores.

Additionally, dandelion's antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress, promoting a faster healing process and reducing the severity of cold sore symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: These plant sterols have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce redness and swelling associated with cold sore outbreaks.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation that contribute to cold sore development.
• Taraxasterol: This compound has shown anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which may help regulate the immune response and reduce the severity of cold sore symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are used for their medicinal properties, including digestive and liver support.
• Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and to support liver and kidney function.
• Flowers: They are used for their medicinal and culinary purposes, including as a diuretic and to support digestive health.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the fresh or dried roots of taraxacum officinale in the morning when the plant is at its highest water content.
2. Chop the harvested roots into small pieces and weigh out 1 part of the plant material by volume.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 2 parts of 95% ethanol by volume in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking of the jar.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container discarding the solids.

8. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle tinctures helps with cold sore because of its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The herbal remedy contains compounds that can help reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with cold sores. Nettle's antiviral properties also target the herpes simplex virus responsible for causing cold sores, slowing down their progression and reducing the duration of outbreaks.

By using stinging nettle tincture regularly, individuals can experience a significant reduction in cold sore frequency and severity, promoting overall oral health and wellbeing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Tannins: Tannins in Urtica dioica tinctures may help reduce inflammation and prevent the herpes simplex virus from replicating, thereby alleviating cold sore symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Urtica dioica, has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that may help reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks.
• Saponins: Saponins in Urtica dioica tinctures may exhibit antiviral activity against the herpes simplex virus, potentially inhibiting the viral replication that leads to cold sore formation.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are commonly used to make tinctures for cold sores because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with cold sore outbreaks.
• Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are used to make tinctures for cold sores because they possess anti-viral properties that can help combat the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores.
• Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are used to make tinctures for cold sores because they contain bioactive compounds that can help reduce the severity and frequency of cold sore outbreaks.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest approximately 1 pound of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Chop the harvested urtica dioica material into small pieces to increase surface area for solvent absorption.
3. Combine 1 part chopped urtica dioica with 2 parts high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar to create the tincture mixture.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 6 to 8 weeks shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the tincture mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

9. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender tinctures helps with cold sore because of its potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb contains a unique combination of terpenes, flavonoids, and other compounds that work synergistically to combat the herpes simplex virus responsible for causing cold sores. Lavender's antiseptic qualities also help soothe and calm the affected area, reducing redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with cold sore outbreaks.

By applying a lavender tincture to the affected area, individuals may experience accelerated healing and reduced duration of cold sore episodes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with cold sore.

• Linalool: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with cold sore outbreaks.
• Linalyl acetate: A terpene that possesses antiviral properties, which can help combat the herpes simplex virus responsible for cold sores, reducing their severity and duration.
• Lavandulol: A terpene that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and pain associated with cold sore outbreaks.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for cold sore.

• Leaves: Known for their antiviral properties, which can help combat the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds that can reduce inflammation and promote healing of cold sore lesions.
• Stems: Contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can aid in soothing and treating cold sore symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 250 grams of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
2. Combine the cleaned flowers with 750 milliliters of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Place the jar in a cool dark area for four to six weeks to steep and macerate.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Store the resulting tincture in a cool dark place and use it after six weeks of preparation.

10. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with cold sore because it has potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help to reduce swelling, redness, and itching associated with cold sores.

The herb's bioflavonoids and hyperforin work synergistically to inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus, reducing the severity and duration of the outbreak.

Additionally, St John's Wort's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the skin, providing rapid relief from discomfort and promoting faster healing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with cold sore.

• Hyperforin: A potent terpene derivative that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help reduce cold sore symptoms and accelerate healing.
• Naphthodianthrone: A phenolic compound that has been shown to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help combat the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness, swelling, and pain associated with cold sores, as well as promote overall skin health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for cold sore.

• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are believed to contribute to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: High in hypericin and hyperforin, which have been shown to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate cold sore symptoms.
• Roots: Contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, that may help to reduce inflammation and prevent the replication of the herpes simplex virus.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for cold sore.

1. Harvest 250 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers at the peak of their potency to ensure the best quality tincture.
2. Chop the dried flowers into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for extraction and faster infusion.
3. Combine the chopped hypericum perforatum with 750 milliliters of 40 percent ethanol in a glass container for 2 weeks.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks to allow for a complete extraction of the plant's properties.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid from the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with cold sore is a blend of L-lysine, Echinacea, and Aloe Vera.

L-lysine helps to boost the immune system and reduce viral replication, while Echinacea's anti-inflammatory properties combat infection and promote healing. Aloe Vera's soothing and antibacterial properties calm the skin and accelerate the recovery process. Taking these tinctures in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the frequency of cold sore outbreaks.

Consult a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies.

What ailments similar to cold sore are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to cold sore that are treated with herbal tinctures are various skin conditions characterized by recurring lesions.

Herbal tinctures can help alleviate symptoms of fever blisters, genital herpes, and shingles. Tinctures made from herbs like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and lavender may soothe inflammation, reduce pain, and promote healing.

They can also be used to treat other viral infections such as warts and molluscum contagiosum, providing natural relief from uncomfortable symptoms.