The 14 Best Essential Oils for Cold Sores 2021 (Plus Recipes)

Cold sores are tiny blisters commonly caused by the herpes simplex virus. It is not only painful and itchy but also embarrassing!

If you have one cold sore, it will easily multiply. Hormonal changes, sunlight, stress, and other external factors can make things worse!

Looking for the natural way to treat cold sores?

Here, I will introduce you to the best essential oils for cold sores.

You will not only know what oil is best to use, but I will also give you some recipes to try!

What Are Cold Sores?

Also called fever blisters, cold sores are red and fluid-filled blisters that form near the mouth or around the face (1).

Although it is rare, cold sores can also appear inside the mouth, as well as on your nose and fingers.

Cold sores usually appear in patches or clusters that may persist for two weeks or more.

The main cause of cold sores is the herpes simplex virus, which spreads through person-to-person contact. The virus will enter your body through a break in your skin.

Cold sores will start as a tingling, burning, or itching spot. It can also be accompanied by fever and sore throat. It is also not uncommon to have swollen lymph nodes.

According to Mayo Clinic (2), people who have weak immune systems are more prone to cold sores. To add, it is also likelier among those who have HIV/AIDS, eczema, or those who have just been through chemotherapy as a treatment for cancer.

How Do You Treat Cold Sores?

Over-the-counter antiviral medications are the most popular when it comes to the treatment of cold sores. Some of the most common prescription drugs include famciclovir, valacyclovir, and acyclovir.

You can also use ointments and creams for the treatment of cold sores. Most of these creams can be used four to five times a day or as instructed by a medical professional.

There are also natural at-home remedies that are worth trying. Using petroleum jelly can help ease discomfort, although, take note that this is not a cure.

Witch hazel, a natural astringent, is also effective. This can make cold sores heal and dry quickly.

Using aloe vera gel will also help. It can fight viruses and also moisturize your skin to minimize the negative impacts of cold sores.

However, in this article, I will focus on recommending essential oil as a treatment for cold sores. Many of you are familiar with using essential oils for relaxation, but not a lot know that it can be equally promising when it comes to cold sores.

Will Essential Oils Work for Cold Sores?

Today, there are limited studies that explore the effectiveness of essential oils against cold sores. Despite this, based on the first-hand experiences shared by a lot of people, it is indeed promising.

Essential oils have anti-inflammatory benefits. They also moisturize the skin, which will minimize the possibility of being dry as a result of having cold sores. It also has antiviral properties, which can stop the virus from spreading.

If you are using essential oils, however, be careful when going out of the sun. Your skin might end up reacting negatively to the heat.

How to Use Essential Oils for Cold Sores

The best way to use essential oils when you have cold sores is through topical application. Before doing this, it is important to dilute the oil. Otherwise, the oil in its concentrated form can exhibit adverse reactions.

Inhaling a small amount in an essential oil diffuser can also help in the treatment of cold sores.

Do not ingest essential oils.

Treat Cold Sores with These Essential Oils

Heal cold sores fast! Here are the best essential oils you might want to try!

Majestic Pure Peppermint Essential Oil

This peppermint essential oil is good not only for cold sores, but it is equally promising for other herpes symptoms.

For decades, peppermint has been popular because of its antiviral properties. It is a common treatment for flu and cold. It can also help improve the immune system.

In one study in 2003 (3), the researchers found a positive link between peppermint oil and herpes simplex virus, which is what causes cold sores.

Healing Solutions Organic Lavender Essential Oil

More than being one of the top essential oils for sleeping, lavender is also great for cold sores.

Lavender can have a positive impact when it comes to easing discomfort and inflammation, making it easier to deal with the symptoms of fever blisters.

This essential oil comes with a purity guarantee from the manufacturer, so you can be sure that it does not contain fillers or additives.

Ola Prima Clove Essential Oil

For centuries, clove has been used as a topical anesthetic. This is a great way to relieve pain. Since cold sores can be painful, using this essential oil can help.

Mixing clove oil with a mild carrier oil is important for its topical application. Once you apply it directly on the cold sore, it will numb the area and minimize the pain you are feeling.

Like other essential oils mentioned in this guide, take note that there is a lack of scientific proof that can prove its effectiveness.

Nexon Botanics Organic Tea Tree Essential Oil

The antiviral properties of this essential oil make it effective in fighting the herpes simplex virus, which is the main cause of cold sores.

It also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory benefits. This means that it will help keep your wounds clean when the blisters are already visible.

Use this oil in a cotton swab with coconut oil at least twice a day to enjoy maximum effectiveness.

H’Ana Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

It is said that chamomile is highly active against a drug-resistant herpes simplex virus.

In a German study published in 2008 (4), the conclusion is that chamomile oil can promote faster healing of infections caused by the herpes simplex virus, and that includes cold sores.

This oil is also a potent source of bisabolol, a compound that stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. This can help speed up healing of cold sores.

Plant Therapy Ginger Root Essential Oil

With the application of ginger essential oil, you are not only reducing the symptoms of cold sores, but you are also preventing the virus from spreading.

Gingerol, a powerful substance in this essential oil, can also help to stop the infection from worsening.

One of the best carrier oils that you can combine with ginger is coconut. Use a cotton swab and apply the oil mixture on your cold sores two to three times a day.

Pure Body Natural Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint essential oil contains menthol. When applied topically and combined with the right carrier oil, it has a cooling effect. This can soothe the pain that is caused by cold sores.

The antiviral and antimicrobial properties of peppermint will also make it promising when it comes to cold sores. Plus, it is a potent source of antioxidants, which can help exterminate viruses.

Maple Holistics 100% Tea Tree Oil

Known for its antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil will also help in dealing with cold sores. It can reduce the size of the blisters.

To be effective, combine it with jojoba and coconut oil and apply it to the affected area at least twice a day. This is a strong oil, so do not forget to dilute before application.

Gya Labs Melissa Essential Oil

Also called lemon balm essential oil, Melissa oil can balance and cleanse the skin without drying. This makes it an effective choice for improving the appearance of cold sores.

It also has antiviral effects, which help it to inhibit the herpes simplex virus.

Melissa oil contains rosmarinic acid, and this is believed to be the one that delivers a powerful antiviral activity (5).

Eve Hansen Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Based on laboratory cell structure tests, the researchers found out that using eucalyptus essential oil could reduce the severity and duration of cold sores.

The calming and soothing sensation of eucalyptus is also beneficial, especially when it comes to easing pain and discomfort that you might feel because of cold sores.

Diffuse Essential Oils Sandalwood Essential Oil

Sandalwood is popular because of its strong fragrance. Not a lot of people, however, are aware that it can be equally promising when you use it for the treatment of cold sores.

Because of the strong scent, it can be irritating when used, so make sure to use a carrier oil. This will help not only for dilution but to also minimize the smell.

Eden’s Garden Oregano Essential Oil

Oregano is useful beyond culinary applications. The herb’s essential oils can also help those who have cold sores.

It can help to treat viral infections that are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1. It reduces the severity, size, and frequency of cold sores.

Sun Essential Oils Turmeric Essential Oil

Rich in antioxidants, turmeric essential oil can help in inhibiting the growth of viruses, including those that can cause cold sores.

It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, it contains curcumin, which is capable of handling microbial infestations.

Not happy with the results of using this turmeric oil? Let the manufacturer know and you will be eligible for a refund.

Essence Lux Vanilla Essential Oil

The sweet scent of vanilla is not the only reason to love this essential oil. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation, this oil can provide relief from the discomfort that cold sores might cause.

Vanilla is a mild essential oil, so you can apply it directly on the cold sores. However, it is best to test it in a small area of your skin first to be sure that there will be no adverse effects. Soak a cotton ball in vanilla essential oil and apply on the blisters. Do it four times a day for maximum results.

Essential Oil Recipes to Try at Home

Here are some easy to follow recipes that can be effective in dealing with cold sores.

Essential Oil Roller

A simple way to treat cold sores is to apply a roller directly on the affected area. You must use a carrier oil to minimize the strength of the essential oil.

• 10 drops of lavender essential oil
• 2 teaspoons of jojoba oil

All that you have to do is to add the oils in a roller bottle. On the first sign of infection, apply the roller on the affected area to stop the spread of the virus before the situation gets worse.

Essential Oil Salve

This easy DIY salve should be applied before the outbreak. It can also help speed up the healing and minimize the frequency.

• 12 drops of lemon essential oil
• 6 drops of tea tree essential oil
• 1-ounce virgin coconut

Mix the ingredients in a jar. Transfer the mixture in a balm container and wait until it hardens. When you have cold sores, apply the salve at least three times a day on the affected area.

Supportive Essential Oil Diffuser Blend

If inhalation is the route to go, instead of topical application, here is a simple recipe that you can follow.

• 3 drops of lemon essential oil
• 2 drops of lemon balm essential oil
• 2 drops of tea tree essential oil
• 1 drop of Frankincense essential oil

Fill the water tank of the diffuser based on what the manufacturer recommends. Add the essential oils, mix, and turn on the diffuser. Take note, however, that this is a supportive blend for overall health to prevent cold sores and not to treat the infection.

Conclusion

With the best essential oils for cold sores, you can enjoy effective relief from itchiness and pain! More importantly, it can speed up the healing to bring back your confidence!

Do not let cold sores become a curse! Deal with it as soon as possible. Take note of the essential oils mentioned above and say goodbye to fever blisters!

Sources: 

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/herpes-labialis, Accessed Sep13, 2020
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/herpes-labialis, Accessed Sep 13, 2020
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/13678235, Accessed Sep 13, 2020
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18957177, Accessed Sep 13, 2020
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22377592, Accessed Sep  13, 2020