Grapefruit Seed Extract for Cold Sores

Many of you at some point have probably found a cold sore on the side of your lower lip. Cold sores can make you feel self-conscious and embarrassed about your appearance. They're also quite painful and irritating. Cold sores typically remain visible for between one and three weeks. Grapefruit seed extract can be used as a valuable topical application to help accelerate the healing of cold sores 34.

Cold Sores Defined

According to the Mayo Clinic, cold sores are caused by the Type 1 herpes simplex virus 1. Cold sores, often referred to as fever blisters, emerge as unattractive fluid-filled lesions on the side of your bottom lip. Although less common, cold sores can also surface on your nostrils, fingers, chin and even on the inside of your mouth. Cold sores can’t be prevented or cured. However, there are substances and measures that you can take to reduce the frequency of their outbreaks.

How They're Transmitted

You can easily become infected with the Type 1 herpes simplex virus, through any form of oral contact with another person who has an active lesion. Additionally, you can get a cold sore by sharing eating utensils, razors and towels with a person who has an outbreak from the virus.

Frequency and Length

Many who have had cold sores report a tingling, itching or burning sensation around the edge of the mouth prior to the noticeable flare-up. For many, cold sore outbreaks are regular occurrences that consistently develop in the same location on your lip or another area. The Mayo Clinic says the average duration of a cold sore is between 10 and 14 days 1.

Grapefruit Seed Extract

Grapefruit seed extract is derived from the seeds of grapefruits 34. It contains the white membranes and pulp of the fruit. The website www.nutribioticgrapefruitseedextract.com says the liquid procured from a grapefruit is renowned for its abilities to combat bactericide, fungicide, antiviral and antiparasitic compounds. Furthermore, grapefruit seed extract has antioxidants and vitamin C. Grapefruit seed extract can be used conventionally, or it can be bought commercially in the form of a pill or cream 34.

Battling Cold Sores

Grapefruit seed extracts have many overall health benefits 4. GSE can strengthen your immune system and help detoxify your body. It can also be used externally to wither your cold sore and reduce the discomfort associated with the virus. To effectively fight a cold sore using grapefruit seed extracts, apply its liquid to the affected area on your mouth two to three times daily with a cotton swab 4. If you routinely apply the liquid derived from grapefruit seed extracts, you can expect your cold sore to begin to heal in a matter of days 4.