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Irish Examiner
27-06-2025
- Health
- Irish Examiner
Natural Health: What can I do about my stress-related cold sores?
I get a cold sore almost every time I get stressed — it can be related to work or a relationship. I meditate daily and take good care of my health, which makes it even more frustrating. Stress is a well-known trigger for cold sores. Other triggers include fatigue, sun exposure, food sensitivities and allergies, medication interactions, and menstruation or hormonal changes. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). HSV-1 is typically contracted in early childhood, with an estimated 90% of all adults being exposed to this virus at some point in their lives. Studies suggest that the herpes simplex virus may require the amino acid arginine for replication, while lysine can help counteract this effect. Arginine-rich foods include chocolate, nuts, oats, carob, coconut, and soybeans, which can trigger outbreaks in some. Lysine is present in vegetables, legumes, fish, sprouts, and dairy products. For some individuals, lysine supplements may help reduce the frequency or severity of outbreaks. Vitamin C and zinc can be taken internally and applied topically to manage cold sores. You will need to take approximately 50mg of zinc daily and up to 5,000mg of vitamin C in 1,000mg increments throughout the day for three days, then reduce this to 3,000mg for maintenance. Zinc has been shown to be effective in inhibiting HSV replication in research studies. It is also well-documented for immune support, and specifically in the management of viral infections. Vitamin C is known as an immune-supportive nutrient, and it also specifically works against the herpes virus (this applies to other herpes-related conditions such as shingles, genital herpes, and the Epstein-Barr virus). Vitamin D is another crucial nutrient for immune support, and individuals dealing with recurrent cold sores may have lower levels of it in their blood. One of the most effective topical treatments is a concentrated extract of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) applied to the affected area. Lemon balm contains several constituents that work synergistically to prevent the virus from taking hold, and is most effective when used as a cream or balm. The recommended extract strength is 70:1 to arrest the outbreak and promote rapid healing of the blisters. If you are unable to track down this concentrated lemon balm extract, consider the more widely available option, propolis extract. Topically, propolis, which bees collect from resins, gums, and sticky plant buds, can help heal lesions quickly and reduce the likelihood of additional infection. Check out the Cork business Hanna's Bees ( for a wide range of bee products, including propolis tincture at only €14.50 for 20ml (which is an excellent size for travel and will last an age). We're taking the ferry to travel to France for our summer holidays. I've three children under 10, and all of them get travel sickness. What remedy would you recommend? Two excellent herbal remedies for motion or travel sickness are chamomile and ginger. You can combine these herbs and add honey to sweeten if needed. Use a teaspoon of dried herbs per cup of boiling water and steep for four to six minutes. This infusion doesn't have to be taken hot — you can strain it off and let it cool, then store it in a water bottle. Additionally, consider packing Sea Bands, which are designed to be worn over the acupressure points in the wrist, allowing you to manage any symptoms as soon as nausea arises. It is a good idea to practise using the bands in advance of the holidays. Ask your children to wear the bands on both wrists for around 10-15 minutes before they hop in the car. These are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most pharmacies. NOTE: The information contained in this column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.
Irish Examiner
30-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Examiner
Natural Health: What can I do about getting a cold sore every summer?
I get a cold sore nearly every year when I go on a sun holiday. The intense heat seems to trigger it. I'm also a nervous traveller, which probably doesn't help. Is there anything I can do to head it off at the pass? Sunlight and stress are the top two triggers for cold sores. Being a nervous traveller will undoubtedly raise your stress levels, and when combined with sunshine, it's more likely the virus will reactivate. Other common triggers for the reactivation of cold sores include fatigue, fever, and menstruation. The herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) is responsible for cold sores and is thought to be carried by 80-90% of the population. Fortunately, only 20% will go on to develop sores. The amino acid lysine generally works well in preventing the herpes virus from flaring up. However, it is worth noting that while it may be effective for some individuals, it may not be effective for others. It's even more important to avoid another amino acid, arginine, which is required by the herpes virus for replication. Arginine-rich foods include chocolate, nuts, oats, carob, coconut and soybeans. Topically, propolis — made by bees from the collection of resins, gums, and sticky plant buds — will heal lesions significantly faster than antiviral medication Acyclovir, and also reduce the likelihood of additional infection. Check out Cork business Hanna's Bees for an extensive range of bee products, including propolis tincture at €14.50 for 20ml (and ideal size for travel). When there is potential for a viral outbreak or flare-up, it is crucial to supplement with vitamin C. Camu-camu is a rainforest fruit with an impressive 8-10% vitamin C content by weight, approximately 30 times that found in oranges, and powerful antiviral properties. Camu camu is also effective in treating other forms of herpes, such as shingles, genital herpes, and the Epstein-Barr virus. Camu-camu has been shown to alleviate cold sore outbreaks more quickly than a leading pharmaceutical drug and is an excellent option for those who don't respond to lysine supplementation. Expect to pay around €20-25 for a bottle of 60 capsules (500mg). You will need to take one capsule daily as a preventative measure or one capsule three times daily with food for three days to treat an existing outbreak. Camu camu is typically available from health stores and pharmacies. I'm in my 70s and have been diagnosed with a twisted colon. Is there anything I can do to ease the symptoms? I'm also coeliac and have IBS. You are probably already quite vigilant with all you eat and drink due to the restrictions of living with coeliac disease and IBS. A twisted colon often requires surgical intervention, so it is worth getting a follow-up appointment or a second opinion regarding your treatment options. Pure aloe vera juice has been successfully used in medical trials to treat IBS, as it helps soothe and heal the mucous membranes in the gut. It may help alleviate your symptoms. Please consult your doctor before taking it or any other natural remedy. If you are currently using psyllium husks or other fibre support to treat your IBS, then it is a good idea to take a break, as excessive fibre can be problematic with a twisted bowel. Juicing fresh organic fruits and vegetables may be worth considering, as this is an excellent way to get nutrients in when your digestive system is compromised. The information contained in this column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.
