• 60 drops of tea tree essential oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)*
• 60 drops of East Indian lemongrass essential oil (Cymbopogon flexuosus)
• 30 drops of ravintsara essential oil (Cinnamomum camphora cineoliferum)
• 30 drops of true lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia)
• 10 drops of vitamin E
• 7.5 ml (½ tbsp or 6 g) of St. John's wort oil macerate or calendula
• 30 ml amber glass dropper bottle

*Tea tree essential oil is very complete thanks to its antiviral (which target the herpes virus very well), pain-relieving and healing properties. That's why we wouldn't make this recipe without it!

Pour all the ingredients into the amber bottle. Mix well.

At the first tingling or burning sensations that announce the appearance of a cold sore, apply 1 to 2 drops of the mixture directly to the affected spot. Massage lightly to absorb. Repeat 8 to 10 times a day on the first day, and 6 times a day for the next 4 days.

Careful! Make sure your hands are very clean and that the dropper doesn't touch the skin of the face. Do not use this formula after the blisters have burst or on broken or damaged skin, or in case of genital herpes.

Can I add other essential oils?

Several essential oils that have proven themselves against cold sores can go into this recipe, as long as you keep the total amount of essential oils at 180 drops so the ratio of essential oils to oil macerate stays the same.

You can thus add bay laurel (Laurus nobilis), field mint (Mentha arvensis), spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia), niaouli (Melaleuca quinquenervia) or thyme thujanol (Thymus vulgaris thujanoliferum) to the blend.

Other tips

To calm itching and the burning sensation between oil applications, you can apply unpasteurized honey, aloe gel or pure (without essential oils) St. John's wort oil macerate or calendula to the developing cold sore.

To space out cold sore outbreaks as much as possible, you need an immune system in top shape! Stress management, frequent exercise, rest and a nutrient-rich diet are essential! Some supplements like zinc, magnesium and lysine seem to show positive effects in controlling cold sore outbreaks. Don't hesitate to consult a qualified naturopath to learn how to use them properly.