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Liquorice root paste
A thick paste of powdered liquorice root and a little water, dabbed on with a cotton bud. That is the whole recipe, and it takes two minutes.
Liquorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which in laboratory and animal studies has shown activity against herpes virus. It is not as well documented as lemon balm, but it is an old and well-founded use.
The paste dries and forms a layer over the sore. It holds moisture in, eases the stinging, and stops you touching it constantly. which in itself helps more than you would think.
Ingredients
- 1 tsp powdered liquorice root
- A few drops of water
Equipment
- Small bowl
- Cotton buds
- Spoon
Method
- 1
Mix powdered liquorice root with a little water into a thick paste.
- 2
Dab gently on the area with a cotton swab 2-3 times daily until the outbreak is under control.
Dosage
Dab gently onto the affected area with a cotton bud, 2-3 times daily, until the outbreak is under control.
A fresh cotton bud each time. Never dip a used bud back into the bowl.
Mix fresh paste each time. It dries out within hours.
Shelf life
Mix fresh each time. The powder keeps 1-2 years in an airtight jar.
Safety
This paste is for external use. Do not swallow it.
Liquorice raises blood pressure and can lower potassium if ingested. On skin in small amounts the risk is low, but if you have high blood pressure, heart disease or kidney disease, do not use it close to the mouth where you will swallow some of it.
Not during pregnancy. Liquorice in larger amounts is associated with premature birth.
A fresh cotton bud every time, and never touch your eyes after touching the sore. Herpes in the eye is serious and needs a doctor immediately.
Wash your hands before and after. Do not share towels, lipstick or glasses while the outbreak lasts. Do not kiss infants.
A first-ever outbreak, one close to the eye, high fever, or one lasting longer than two weeks belongs with a doctor. Antiviral medication works, especially started early.
How the herbs work
Liquorice root contains glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid, which in laboratory and animal studies have shown they inhibit the herpes virus''s ability to replicate. The compounds are also anti-inflammatory, which calms redness and swelling around the sore.
The paste also has a purely physical effect. It dries and forms a layer that holds moisture in and protects the tender area from air and touch. A cold sore heals better when it does not dry out and crack.
The evidence is weaker than for lemon balm, which has been studied in people. Liquorice root is well founded and traditionally used, but not proven to the same standard.
The content here is general knowledge and folk herbal lore, not medical treatment. In illness, pregnancy, breastfeeding or alongside medication: always talk to your doctor first.