Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Hello Terry, “I constantly have canker sores and fever blisters. What can I use to prevent them from recurring?” — Teri K., Green Bay, WI

A. Dear Teri, Fever blisters are the result of a virus called Herpes simplex (HSV) that lies dormant (or “hides”) until it is awakened by certain changes in the body. While the HSV stays in your body for the rest of your life, there are effective ways to prevent it from occurring and to keep it dormant. Canker sores, on the other hand, are usually caused by acidic foods such as tomatoes, oranges and grapefruit or by biting the inside of the cheek and lip. Movement of teeth due to poor dental alignment can also cause frequent irritation of the cheek that can lead to the development of canker sores.

I have found that both types of sores heal extremely well and quickly when you maintain a higher level of calcium and magnesium. I recommend adding calcium lactate to your supplement regimen. I personally have responded to this protocol since I am also susceptible to canker sores and fever blisters. I usually take 4 to 6 calcium lactate tablets two or three times the first day, and in my experience, that stops the pain and tenderness of the canker sore within the first day. Use the same protocol for fever blisters but be aware that they may take a day or two longer to heal.

I would also recommend administering a drop or two of Ravintsara essential oil on the fever blister. Ravintsara is one of the finest and most excellent antivirals with a high tolerability and very low toxicity. It is best not to apply it full strength, so go ahead and dilute the Ravintsara oil in a small amount of olive oil or honey and then apply.

The amino acid lysine may also help hasten recovery and aid in prevention as it helps to inhibit viral replication. Dosage is important—you need to use a minimum of 1-2 grams per day, based on your body weight, with more used for severe breakouts. However, do not exceed 8 grams a day because there have been no additional benefits seen beyond this amount. Topical lemon balm can also be soothing and aid in speeding recovery. HSV tends to rear its ugly head when we are stressed, weak, run down, not eating healthy, or our immune system isn’t working as it should. Taking steps to improve your basic health practices will help reduce the number of HSV outbreaks.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally