Lemon balm for treatment of cold sores

Preliminary studies suggest lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) may shorten the healing time of cold sores. Some people also use it to prevent outbreaks, but there is not much evidence to support how well it works.¹ More research is needed.

Most cold sores heal on their own without prescription medications or complementary therapies.

Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: March 13, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
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