Conquer cold sores: stopping a cold sore in its tracks is possible with the help of this three-step herbal action plan.(HOW TO: SUPPLEMENTS)

It's hard to imagine that a simple kiss could make you miserable. But just consider the painful, ugly cold sore, which was apparently put here just to spoil tonight's big date.

These liquid-filled blisters, which erupt around the lips, sometimes extending to the nose or chin, are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and the HSV-2 viruses, relatives of the chicken pox virus. The blister is not necessarily the result of catching a cold, and is common in any season. More than 90 percent of those who now get cold sores were infected between the ages of 6 months and 4 years. The virus remained dormant deep in the DNA of nerve tissue for months or years. Sixty percent of Americans have cold sores at some time, with 25 percent experiencing recurrent outbreaks.

Immune stresses can provoke cold sore eruption, including emotional stress, dental procedures, excessive sun exposure, infections and facial trauma. The virus reactivates, moves down the nerve and starts a blister and sometimes a fever, swollen glands and body aches.

Unlike cold sores, canker sores are nonviral ulcers that form on mucous membranes inside the mouth.

Untreated, a cold sore lasts six to 10 excruciating days. Herbal medicines offer relief and can permanently conquer them. Build your immune system, use these remedies, and reap the results.

Prevent with Licorice Root

A modest daily oral dose of licorice strengthens the immune system to reduce outbreaks. It's also a strong anti-inflammatory medicine. For a blister, use a licorice ointment or cream that contains glycyrrhetinic acid, or the related glycyrrhizic acid (the active compounds). Topical glycyrrhetinic acid has been shown in clinical studies to reduce pain and healing time. It has also inhibited the herpes virus in test tubes.