10 Ways To Get Rid Of A Cold Sore Overnight: Home Remedies

Cold sores, or fever blisters, are a very common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2). 

For many, experiencing a cold sore can feel uncomfortable or even embarrassing, but it’s important to remember that cold sores are manageable, and there are plenty of effective treatments.

More importantly, there’s no need to feel ashamed. 

Millions of people carry the herpes virus, but outbreaks can be completely suppressed with the right approach. 

At Auranima, we believe that experiencing an outbreak is not inevitable; by embarking on a holistic healing journey, we can help you live free of frequent outbreaks.

Whether you get occasional cold sores or deal with them more frequently, the following remedies and supportive treatments can help ease symptoms and speed up recovery.

1. Ice Application

Applying ice as soon as you feel a cold sore developing can help reduce pain and swelling, which is especially useful at the beginning of an outbreak.

How It Works

Ice temporarily restricts blood flow to the affected area, reducing swelling and numbing pain.

Application

Wrap an ice cube in a cloth and press it gently on the sore for 10–15 minutes multiple times a day.

2. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is known for its antiviral effects, which may help shorten the healing time of cold sores and prevent the virus from spreading further.

How It Works

Compounds in lemon balm target HSV, helping relieve symptoms and reducing the sore’s longevity.

Application

Use lemon balm ointment or dilute lemon balm oil with a carrier oil to apply directly to the cold sore.

3. Kanuka Honey

Kanuka honey, similar to manuka honey, is celebrated for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a great option for treating cold sores.

How It Works: 

Studies suggest that honey creates a protective barrier over the sore, promoting faster healing while reducing symptoms.

Application: 

Apply a small amount of kanuka honey to the sore using a cotton swab, reapplying as needed.

4. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel soothes the skin, reduces inflammation, and helps keep the sore hydrated, which supports faster healing.

How It Works: 

Known for its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, aloe vera also helps prevent skin irritation and dryness around the sore.

Application: 

Apply aloe vera gel to the sore multiple times a day for cooling relief.

5. Peppermint Oil (and Other Essential Oils)

Peppermint oil and other essential oils like tea tree oil can be effective natural treatments for cold sores due to their inhibitory effects on viruses.

How It Works: 

Essential oils have been shown to have virucidal effects and can inhibit HSV activity. However, always dilute essential oils to avoid skin irritation.

Application: 

Mix peppermint or tea tree oil with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and apply sparingly to the sore with a cotton swab.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is thought to help cold sores by drying them out and preventing bacterial infections, but it must be used with caution.

How It Works: 

The acidity of apple cider vinegar may shorten a sore’s lifespan by drying it out, while antibacterial properties help prevent infection.

Application: 

Dilute apple cider vinegar with water and apply gently to the sore using a cotton swab, limiting use to avoid irritation.

7. L-lysine Supplements

L-lysine is an amino acid known for its ability to help prevent and manage cold sores by reducing viral activity.

How It Works: 

L-lysine may inhibit HSV-1 replication, which reduces outbreak frequency and severity.

Application: 

Take L-lysine supplements daily or apply a paste made from crushed L-lysine tablets mixed with water to the sore.

8. Auranima’s Holistic Cold Sore Management

Auranima offers a uniquely soulistic approach to managing cold sores and HSV, designed to provide not only physical relief but also emotional support. 

At Auranima, they recognize that living with HSV can sometimes feel isolating, but it truly doesn’t have to be that way.

How It Works: 

Auranima’s program combines natural remedies, botanical-rich nutrition, and a supportive community to help individuals with HSV feel empowered and resilient, and guide them to a path of true healing. 

You can also be part of this journey by joining our Skool community, where we share weekly meditations and holistic health tips.

They focus on removing the stigma around cold sores and provide members with personalized healing plans, spiritual growth tools, and a safe space to connect with others who understand.

9. Pure Vanilla Extract

Pure vanilla extract is a lesser-known home remedy for cold sores, but some users report it can help soothe symptoms and promote healing.

How It Works: 

Vanilla extract contains a high percentage of alcohol, which can dry out the sore, reducing its duration.

Application: 

Apply pure vanilla extract to the sore with a cotton swab, reapplying a few times a day for best results.

10. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Creams 

So as our very last resort, we don’t usually recommend this, but it can be very effective—using OTC creams. 

Medications like Abreva, which contain the active ingredient docosanol, can speed up healing by preventing the virus from spreading to nearby cells.

How It Works: 

Docosanol is one of the few FDA-approved cold sore medications that blocks HSV from spreading, reducing the duration and severity of symptoms.

Application: 

Apply a small amount of Abreva or other topical creams as directed on the package, starting at the first sign of a cold sore for optimal effectiveness.

Why It’s Okay to Have HSV: 

Cold sores are incredibly common, and we’re here to assure you that having HSV doesn’t define who you are. It actually carries information for you to transform. It’s a message!

With compassionate guidance, expert support, and a community that embraces healing, Auranima encourages individuals to focus on well-being without fear or shame. 

Managing and suppressing HSV is entirely possible, and you’re not alone on this journey. Our Skool community is here to support you with compassionate discussions and expert advice.

Additional Benefits: 

Through Auranima, members gain access to a roadmap for healing that covers both physical and emotional care, offering a truly comprehensive way to approach HSV. 

By focusing on the person as a whole, Auranima helps break the stigma and allows individuals to live confidently and comfortably.

FAQ

    1.    What kills a cold sore fast overnight?

Applying antiviral creams or natural remedies like lemon balm may help speed healing.

    2.    Can toothpaste help a cold sore?

Toothpaste may dry out a cold sore but isn’t a proven remedy.

    3.    What dries out a cold sore?

Apple cider vinegar, alcohol, or zinc oxide can help dry out a cold sore.

    4.    Does ice help cold sores?

Yes, ice can reduce swelling and numb pain temporarily.

Understanding Cold Sores: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

What Causes Cold Sores?

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), typically HSV-1 for oral herpes or HSV-2 for genital herpes. 

The virus spreads through skin contact, intimate contact like oral sex, or contact with infected saliva. 

Many people contract HSV as children, and the virus remains dormant, reactivating due to triggers like stress, sunlight, or illness.

Symptoms of Cold Sores

The symptoms of cold sores usually begin with itching or tingling, which develops into small, painful blisters that ooze and crust. 

Because they’re highly contagious during this phase, it’s essential to avoid close contact with others, especially through kissing, sharing personal items, or touching the sore.

Cold Sore Treatment Options: Antiviral Medications and More

When home remedies aren’t enough, antiviral medication like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir may be recommended by a healthcare provider to shorten outbreak duration. 

Clinical trials have shown that these medications are effective for treating both canker sores and cold sores in severe or frequent cases. 

Additionally, OTC medication like docosanol can help minimize symptom severity.

Medical Advice and Side Effects

It’s a good idea to seek medical advice if you experience frequent or severe cold sores. 

While side effects from antiviral drugs are generally mild, it’s important to follow dosing guidelines to avoid any complications. 

If you experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider.

The Best Way to Prevent Future Outbreaks

Preventing cold sores starts with a strong immune system and good lifestyle habits. 

Our Skool community offers holistic health tips and resources to help you stay proactive.

Stress reduction, adequate sleep, and avoiding known triggers (like excessive sun exposure) are key. 

Supplements like vitamin C and vitamin E support immune function, while using a lip balm with SPF can protect against sun-triggered outbreaks.

Conclusion

Living with cold sores is entirely manageable, and there’s a high chance you can suppress the virus and live a completely normal life. 

With the right therapy, many people are able to reduce or completely suppress outbreaks, and some are even able to achieve complete freedom from the virus. 

Effective treatments, natural remedies, and support can help you take control of your health. 

Our Skool community is a great place to find ongoing support and connect with like-minded individuals.

Cold sores are common and nothing to be ashamed of.

If you’re looking for a supportive, compassionate approach to managing cold sores and HSV, consider exploring Auranima. 

Our holistic programs offer personalized guidance, emotional support, and a stigma-free community. 

For those interested, Auranima offers a free discovery call to help you get started on your journey to well-being. 

To learn more and schedule your call, click here.