Natural Herpes Treatments
Do you or a loved one suffer from herpes? Genital herpes is a common STD, and most people with genital herpes infection do not know they have it.
- You can get genital herpes even if your partner shows no signs of the infection.
- If you have any symptoms (like a sore on your genitals, especially one that periodically recurs) laboratory tests can help determine if you have genital herpes.
- There is no cure for herpes, but treatment is available to reduce symptoms and decrease the risk of transmission to a partner.
Natural Treatments to Fight Herpes
The most powerful natural ingredients to dramatically suppress the Herpes virus include Lysine, Zinc, and Vitamin C. Lysine is an amino acid taken to prevent and treat cold sores. It can be applied directly to the mouth or to the skin. It reduces recurrences, healing times, and the severity of outbreaks. Taken with a sufficient dose, Lysine can slowdown the growth and replication of the herpes virus.
- Lysine – Their have been numerous studies performed by top universities that provide scientific evidence of its efficacy. According to a recent study by NYU Langone Medical center, “One double-blind, placebo-controlled study followed 52 participants with a history of herpes flare-ups. 11 While receiving 3 g of L-lysine every day for 6 months, the treatment group experienced an average of 2.4 fewer herpes flare-ups than the placebo group—a significant difference. The lysine group’s flare-ups were also significantly less severe and healed faster.”
- Vitamin C – Also known as Ascorbic acid, Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that boosts your immune system and increasing the bodes defense against the Herpes virus. It works by healing the skin tissue from cold sores and outbreaks and decreasing the bodies weakness to infection. Taken regularly, iy can reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
- Zinc – Zinc is effective at suppressing HSV-1 and HSV-2. When applied to cold sores, healing is improved with faster recovery times and decrease in symptoms and occurrence.
Natural Herpes Treatments or Pharmaceutical Options?
In this article we'll take a more detailed look at the two HSV infections that are most common and how they can be treated with herbal medicines. The remedies in this chapter work for both types of herpes but some are more suitable for HSV1, while others are best used for HSV 2.
Both forms of herpes can be treated with over-the-counter creams and lotions but many people are uncomfortable with using some of these and, particularly, the chemicals that they contain. In addition, these treatments are only designed to reduce the impact of blisters (although they rarely get rid of them completely) and the time it takes to recover from the sores. Although effective to an extent, these creams do not help to limit or reduce the outbreaks of HSV1.
While many people will only suffer from outbreaks of herpes once or twice in their lifetime (although they carry the virus itself for life) other individuals will suffer from repeated outbreaks. For some people, these can occur several times a year and can be accompanied by feelings of general illness and fatigue. For these people the creams and lotions offer some relief but often long term use of anti-viral drugs may be necessary. Again, this is often a choice that people prefer to avoid.
Herbal and homeopathic remedies have not been thoroughly studied in clinical settings but there is strong anecdotal evidence of their effectiveness. In some cases, limited studies have been undertaken and appear to support the use of these remedies as effective preventions and treatments for HSV1. In this article we'll take a look at each of the most popular herbal and homeopathic cures for HSV1 and, where studies have been conducted this is noted.
Both forms of herpes can be treated with over-the-counter creams and lotions but many people are uncomfortable with using some of these and, particularly, the chemicals that they contain. In addition, these treatments are only designed to reduce the impact of blisters (although they rarely get rid of them completely) and the time it takes to recover from the sores. Although effective to an extent, these creams do not help to limit or reduce the outbreaks of HSV1.
While many people will only suffer from outbreaks of herpes once or twice in their lifetime (although they carry the virus itself for life) other individuals will suffer from repeated outbreaks. For some people, these can occur several times a year and can be accompanied by feelings of general illness and fatigue. For these people the creams and lotions offer some relief but often long term use of anti-viral drugs may be necessary. Again, this is often a choice that people prefer to avoid.
Herbal and homeopathic remedies have not been thoroughly studied in clinical settings but there is strong anecdotal evidence of their effectiveness. In some cases, limited studies have been undertaken and appear to support the use of these remedies as effective preventions and treatments for HSV1. In this article we'll take a look at each of the most popular herbal and homeopathic cures for HSV1 and, where studies have been conducted this is noted.
Prescription Drug Problems
Fevers, bruising, red spots on the skin, diarrhea, vomiting, weight gain, lower back pain, and hallucinations. This is not even the complete list of side effects of taking Valtrex; a prescription drug for the treatment of herpes. Serious side effects are not uncommon in these powerful prescription medications and they can often leave patients feeling weak and unhealthy over time.
Unfortunately, the pharmaceutical industry has shown little inclination to do comprehensive research and clinical testing of natural ingredients to combat herpes unless they can patent it and make a substantial profit. For example, lysine, copper, and zinc all have been shown in independent studies to suppress the herpes virus. In some cases they have even killed it. Since these are naturally occurring substances, they can not be patented.
Unfortunately, the pharmaceutical industry has shown little inclination to do comprehensive research and clinical testing of natural ingredients to combat herpes unless they can patent it and make a substantial profit. For example, lysine, copper, and zinc all have been shown in independent studies to suppress the herpes virus. In some cases they have even killed it. Since these are naturally occurring substances, they can not be patented.
Herpes Diet
If you suffer from herpes you can control the vies and prevent outbreaks with a diet with the proper ratio of lysine and argine. Finding the proper balance in your foods can be challenging and this is why a high quality supplement is recommended to take out the guesswork. Mediviral is a carefully formulated with the right balance of essential supplements to stop outbreaks, suppress the virus, and keep the immune system strong.
A strong immune system is essential to preventing repeated outbreaks and this is not something prescription medications can offer. Essential foods such as fresh greens, fresh fruits, legumes, shoe grain, seaweeds, mushrooms, and garlic boost the immune system whereas foods like sugar, white flor and rice, coffee, fried foods, processed meats, peanuts, alcohol, chocolate, and soft drinks should be avoided. A healthy diet and lifestyle choices is key to controlling it the virus . Mediviral takes the guesswork out of what to eat with it’s comprehensive list of over 300 foods which deter and trigger outbreaks. Learn how not to treat herpes.
Some of the most import steps you can take to improve your diet and inhibit outbreaks is to reduce your sugar intake. Whether its processed or unprocessed, sugars are known to suppress the immune system and slow down the healing process. Keeping the liver clean will also improve your bodies defense against the virus. Foods like spinach, kale, and broccoli offer plant enzymes and chlorophyl which cleanse the liver.
Another thing you want to get into the habit of is consuming healthy fats. Herpes primarily effects the skin; therefor consuming adequate servings of coconut oil, avocado, and salmon, can rejuvenate your skin and minimize the flakiness and shedding from healing. You can increase your zinc intake by adding pumpkin seeds to your salads. As previously noted, Zinc has been shown to prevent recurrence of herpes outbreaks. Foods rich in lysine include turkey, chicken, salmon, and halibut. Incorporating more of these into your diet will help control the virus.
A strong immune system is essential to preventing repeated outbreaks and this is not something prescription medications can offer. Essential foods such as fresh greens, fresh fruits, legumes, shoe grain, seaweeds, mushrooms, and garlic boost the immune system whereas foods like sugar, white flor and rice, coffee, fried foods, processed meats, peanuts, alcohol, chocolate, and soft drinks should be avoided. A healthy diet and lifestyle choices is key to controlling it the virus . Mediviral takes the guesswork out of what to eat with it’s comprehensive list of over 300 foods which deter and trigger outbreaks. Learn how not to treat herpes.
Some of the most import steps you can take to improve your diet and inhibit outbreaks is to reduce your sugar intake. Whether its processed or unprocessed, sugars are known to suppress the immune system and slow down the healing process. Keeping the liver clean will also improve your bodies defense against the virus. Foods like spinach, kale, and broccoli offer plant enzymes and chlorophyl which cleanse the liver.
Another thing you want to get into the habit of is consuming healthy fats. Herpes primarily effects the skin; therefor consuming adequate servings of coconut oil, avocado, and salmon, can rejuvenate your skin and minimize the flakiness and shedding from healing. You can increase your zinc intake by adding pumpkin seeds to your salads. As previously noted, Zinc has been shown to prevent recurrence of herpes outbreaks. Foods rich in lysine include turkey, chicken, salmon, and halibut. Incorporating more of these into your diet will help control the virus.
Herbal Treatments for Herpes
Herbs have been used throughout history for medicinal purposes. In fact, for much of our history they have been the main basis for many cures and treatments. Even modern pharmaceuticals may contain plant and herbal extracts which have beneficial active ingredients. While herbs can be beneficial they can, on occasion, interact with other medications or cause side-effects. It is wise to take medical advice before using any herbal treatments. Below are the herbal treatments that are believed to be most effective for treating the herpes virus. These treatments should work for both forms of the infection and where research has been carried out this is identified under the specific treatment.
Olive Leaf Extract
In a clinical study performed by Upjohn Pharmaceuticals, it was found that the active component of olive leaf extract called Oleuropein is lethal to the herpes simplex viruses Type 1 and 2 (using both in vitro and in vivo studies). These trials found it inactivated the herpes virus and prevented it from entering cells.
As well as being a powerful antiviral herb, olive leaf extract can also be helpful for yeast and fungal infections, boosting the immune system, protecting the heart, raising energy levels and helping to cure infections.
Just as the active compounds contained in the olive leaf tree fight off invading bugs and germs during its life cycle, taking a daily olive leaf supplement can assist the body in fighting off a wide range of pathogens including herpes viruses.
It may take between 2 to 4 weeks before a person notice the effect of olive leaf, but when taken consistently it is likely to help reduce the frequency and intensity of herpes outbreaks -- and may even help to offer some limited resistance to prevent herpes infection, particularly if taken by both partners and combined with other anti—viral immune stimulants.
As well as being a powerful antiviral herb, olive leaf extract can also be helpful for yeast and fungal infections, boosting the immune system, protecting the heart, raising energy levels and helping to cure infections.
Just as the active compounds contained in the olive leaf tree fight off invading bugs and germs during its life cycle, taking a daily olive leaf supplement can assist the body in fighting off a wide range of pathogens including herpes viruses.
It may take between 2 to 4 weeks before a person notice the effect of olive leaf, but when taken consistently it is likely to help reduce the frequency and intensity of herpes outbreaks -- and may even help to offer some limited resistance to prevent herpes infection, particularly if taken by both partners and combined with other anti—viral immune stimulants.
Barley grass
Research done on patients with ulcerative colitis showed that those given barley grass showed significant improvements in their symptoms - including fewer episodes of diarrhea and less pain - compared to the group receiving conventional medication (standard anti—inflammatory medication including steroids).
Other studies done in Japan have shown that barley grass tea significantly improves the flow of blood as well as lowers the amount of LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol.
Barley grass has also shown promising results in studies done on its ability to inhibit certain cancer cell growths, mainly breast and prostate cancer. There are testimonies of cancer patients, who have been healed by consuming Barley grass and changing their lifestyles, but further studies are needed.
As you can see, barley grass is good for increasing the total health of your body, which in turn will help you cure your herpes forever. Barley grass is best consumed freshly pressed, but it tastes disgusting and takes time to grow and press yourself. Barley grass powder offers most of the benefits with none of the downsides, which is why I recommend it.
Other studies done in Japan have shown that barley grass tea significantly improves the flow of blood as well as lowers the amount of LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol.
Barley grass has also shown promising results in studies done on its ability to inhibit certain cancer cell growths, mainly breast and prostate cancer. There are testimonies of cancer patients, who have been healed by consuming Barley grass and changing their lifestyles, but further studies are needed.
As you can see, barley grass is good for increasing the total health of your body, which in turn will help you cure your herpes forever. Barley grass is best consumed freshly pressed, but it tastes disgusting and takes time to grow and press yourself. Barley grass powder offers most of the benefits with none of the downsides, which is why I recommend it.
Lemon Balm
This is considered by many to be one of the single most effective treatments for HSV. The herb contains a number of components which may be behind this effect. Specifically, lemon balm contains a number of ingredients which fight sores and blisters — flavonoids and phenolic acid in particular.
Lemon balm, according to it's supporters, not only reduces the appearance of cold sores but speeds up recovery time. The herb can be applied in cream form, or an infusion can be created in “tea” form which can be applied to the affected area.
Lemon balm has been the subject of a number of small scientific studies and these have backed up the anecdotal evidence in support of the herb. For HSV2, lemon balm can be used in much the same way. Generally the herb is safe to use, but pregnant women should always take medical advice before using any herbal remedy.
Lemon balm, according to it's supporters, not only reduces the appearance of cold sores but speeds up recovery time. The herb can be applied in cream form, or an infusion can be created in “tea” form which can be applied to the affected area.
Lemon balm has been the subject of a number of small scientific studies and these have backed up the anecdotal evidence in support of the herb. For HSV2, lemon balm can be used in much the same way. Generally the herb is safe to use, but pregnant women should always take medical advice before using any herbal remedy.
Echinacea
This is a very well known herbal, medicinal plant and its use in medicine appears to be down to its antiviral properties. Echinacea is also believed to be an immune system booster and for these reasons it is recommended as a HSV1 and HSV2 treatment.
For those who suffer from frequent and recurrent outbreaks, Echinacea may prove a viable alternative to long term use of antiviral drugs. By boosting the immune system it helps to fight of all manner of viruses and infections in addition to HSV. For most people who suffer from HSV, in either form, it is during periods of lowered immunity that the virus reactivates. The herb has been subject to a wide range of studies which have largely supported its beneficial qualities in relation to both the immune system and herpes. Echinacea is widely available and comes in the form of teas, juices and pills and it is normally suitable for most individuals to take on a long term basis. It is also considered equally effective for both HSV1 and HSV 2.
For those who suffer from frequent and recurrent outbreaks, Echinacea may prove a viable alternative to long term use of antiviral drugs. By boosting the immune system it helps to fight of all manner of viruses and infections in addition to HSV. For most people who suffer from HSV, in either form, it is during periods of lowered immunity that the virus reactivates. The herb has been subject to a wide range of studies which have largely supported its beneficial qualities in relation to both the immune system and herpes. Echinacea is widely available and comes in the form of teas, juices and pills and it is normally suitable for most individuals to take on a long term basis. It is also considered equally effective for both HSV1 and HSV 2.
Tea Tree Oil
This is found by many users to be an effective treatment for HSV1 and HSV2. However, it is slightly more controversial than some treatments and not every individual has found it successful. It may certainly be worth trying but is not guaranteed to work in every case. The oil is likely to cause irritation to the skin if applied directly so should always be used in dilution.
Essential oil is widely available and a dilution can be made using 3 or 4 drops in a small amount of water. This can then be applied directly to the blisters. For HSV 2 where there are a larger number of sores adding the oil to your bath is recommended. Studies have supported, to some extent, the use of Tea Tree Oil for the treatment of herpes.
Essential oil is widely available and a dilution can be made using 3 or 4 drops in a small amount of water. This can then be applied directly to the blisters. For HSV 2 where there are a larger number of sores adding the oil to your bath is recommended. Studies have supported, to some extent, the use of Tea Tree Oil for the treatment of herpes.
Black Tea
Tea, that humble beverage, contains Tannins. If you feel an HSV outbreak coming on and are fresh-out of every other herbal supplement known to man, woman and child, then the simple tea bag can come in handy. Tannins have been widely studied though their impact on herpes has been less so.
However, the established antiviral and anti-inflammatory qualities of Tannin are likely to be behind the affect. Simply prepare tea with a tea bag and allow it to cool to a comfortable heat, then apply the tea bag directly to the sore. Leave this in place for around five minutes and repeat two or three times a day. Generally, anecdotal reports suggest that this will ease the soreness of the outbreak and can help to reduce the recovery time by several days.
However, the established antiviral and anti-inflammatory qualities of Tannin are likely to be behind the affect. Simply prepare tea with a tea bag and allow it to cool to a comfortable heat, then apply the tea bag directly to the sore. Leave this in place for around five minutes and repeat two or three times a day. Generally, anecdotal reports suggest that this will ease the soreness of the outbreak and can help to reduce the recovery time by several days.
Honey
Before the discovery and widespread use of penicillin, honey was generally used in medical settings to reduce infection. This was an established medical practice going back many centuries. Although it has fallen out of favor with the clinical establishment honey has, in recent years, seen a resurgence in popularity as a home—based, herbal remedy. For HSV infections honey can be applied directly to the infected area and should help to both soothe and reduce the infection (also helping to stop it to spread).
Leave the honey in place (as far as possible!) for around ten minutes and then wash and dry gently. Repeat two to three times daily. The effectiveness of honey has been subject to a number of scientific studies and it has been found to be most effective for HSV2 although results have also been positive for HSV1. Raw honey has been found to be more effective than processed honey — the latter may even spread infection.
Leave the honey in place (as far as possible!) for around ten minutes and then wash and dry gently. Repeat two to three times daily. The effectiveness of honey has been subject to a number of scientific studies and it has been found to be most effective for HSV2 although results have also been positive for HSV1. Raw honey has been found to be more effective than processed honey — the latter may even spread infection.
Licorice Root
Licorice has been extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine for many hundreds of years and is used to treat a wide range of conditions. In terms of both types of HSV licorice root will not prevent outbreaks but has been found to help many people in reducing the severity of the infection and reduce recovery time. Containing Glycyrrhizin (an anti-inflammatory) and flavonoids, licorice appears to act by reducing swelling and fighting infection.
The root comes in various forms — dried, liquid extracts, creams, pills or gel form. For herpes the most useful forms are creams and pills (crushed and made into a paste). In cream form licorice can be applied directly to the sores — using a cotton swab to avoid spreading the infection. Pills can be crushed and combined with water (or a carrier oil such as almond, if preferred).
The paste can then be applied to the sores. Licorice is known to cause raised levels of blood pressure and the retention of fluid if taken orally — however, there are no known risks for treatments where it is applied only to the skin.
The root comes in various forms — dried, liquid extracts, creams, pills or gel form. For herpes the most useful forms are creams and pills (crushed and made into a paste). In cream form licorice can be applied directly to the sores — using a cotton swab to avoid spreading the infection. Pills can be crushed and combined with water (or a carrier oil such as almond, if preferred).
The paste can then be applied to the sores. Licorice is known to cause raised levels of blood pressure and the retention of fluid if taken orally — however, there are no known risks for treatments where it is applied only to the skin.
Baking Soda
Not exactly “herbal”, baking soda is a manufactured version of a naturally occurring mineral deposit. It is used in baking but also in a massive range of other areas from cleaning to deodorizing. While baking soda will not cure herpes it can help to dry out sores and this in turn reduces painful swelling.
Baking soda also soaks up excess moisture in the skin and helps to balance the skin's pH. Although not directly reducing the infection, this can help to soothe and limit the spread of cold sore. Baking soda can be applied directly but making a thick paste with water, applying to the affected area and allowing this to dry is probably easier. Once dry, simply rinse off and pat the skin dry gently. When applying, use small cotton buds but don't use more than once to avoid contamination from the sore.
Baking soda also soaks up excess moisture in the skin and helps to balance the skin's pH. Although not directly reducing the infection, this can help to soothe and limit the spread of cold sore. Baking soda can be applied directly but making a thick paste with water, applying to the affected area and allowing this to dry is probably easier. Once dry, simply rinse off and pat the skin dry gently. When applying, use small cotton buds but don't use more than once to avoid contamination from the sore.
Cornstarch
Another culinary option for treating herpes, like baking soda, cornstarch has been found to be great at speeding the recovery time from cold sores and blisters. Apply using the same methods described for baking soda. As well as speeding recovery, cornstarch will soothe itching and reduce moisture in the blisters.
Both baking soda and cornstarch are suitable for HSV2 and can be simply sprinkled on underwear as well as applied directly. This latter method can make HSV2 far less uncomfortable.
Both are odorless and baking soda is also a deodorizing agent. Although baking soda is now manufactured it is effectively a naturally occurring mineral and cornstarch is also a natural product.
Both baking soda and cornstarch are suitable for HSV2 and can be simply sprinkled on underwear as well as applied directly. This latter method can make HSV2 far less uncomfortable.
Both are odorless and baking soda is also a deodorizing agent. Although baking soda is now manufactured it is effectively a naturally occurring mineral and cornstarch is also a natural product.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera gel has been used for many centuries to moisturize skin and to help with the healing process for scars, cuts and lesions. It's available from health stores and is a common ingredient in a wide range of skincare products (particularly moisturizers). However, you don't need to spend a small fortune on products to take advantage of the soothing, healing and moisturizing qualities of this natural plant extract.
In fact, many products containing Aloe Vera gel also include ingredients that may cause more irritation than they resolve. Simply buying an Aloe Vera plant is the most expense that you need to go to! Pure Aloe Vera gel is the best form for treatment of Herpes.
To use, simply break a stalk from the plant and divide into smaller pieces. Trim any thorny parts from the edge the plant before use. You can use directly on the skin (but only use one piece per sore to avoid contamination) or you can chill in the refrigerator or freezer to provide extra cooling relief.
In fact, many products containing Aloe Vera gel also include ingredients that may cause more irritation than they resolve. Simply buying an Aloe Vera plant is the most expense that you need to go to! Pure Aloe Vera gel is the best form for treatment of Herpes.
To use, simply break a stalk from the plant and divide into smaller pieces. Trim any thorny parts from the edge the plant before use. You can use directly on the skin (but only use one piece per sore to avoid contamination) or you can chill in the refrigerator or freezer to provide extra cooling relief.
Epsom Salt
Or Magnesium Sulfate, to give it its correct name is very beneficial for a number of reasons. Magnesium is a crucial mineral for our body but it's one that many people simply don't get enough of. It provides a number of health benefits and improves mood, reduces stress, is important for healthy sleep, treat cramps and it also helps regulate weight.
A side—effect of these benefits is an improvement in the immune system and its ability to fight infection. In terms of herpes it's best used to treat HSV 2 as the easiest way to apply Epsom Salt is as a bath soak. In addition to fighting against the infection Epsom Salt also helps to dry out blisters. Add to the tub while you run the bath and then stir the water once the tub is full. Soak for 15-30 minutes to absorb the benefits of Magnesium. Pat dry any affected area gently to avoid irritation.
A side—effect of these benefits is an improvement in the immune system and its ability to fight infection. In terms of herpes it's best used to treat HSV 2 as the easiest way to apply Epsom Salt is as a bath soak. In addition to fighting against the infection Epsom Salt also helps to dry out blisters. Add to the tub while you run the bath and then stir the water once the tub is full. Soak for 15-30 minutes to absorb the benefits of Magnesium. Pat dry any affected area gently to avoid irritation.
Rhubarb Cream
Unlikely as it seems, this particular plant appears to be the super-food of choice when it comes to herpes. Although limited study of the benefits of rhubarb against herpes have been conducted, at least one found that it was as effective as the standard medications used in the treatment of HSV1 and HSV2. This study (conducted in Switzerland) used a combination of sage extract and rhubarb extract — which proved more effective than sage alone.
Rhubarb cream can be sourced from health food stores but simply applying rhubarb in the same way as Aloe Vera has been found to be very effective for people with HSV.
Rhubarb cream can be sourced from health food stores but simply applying rhubarb in the same way as Aloe Vera has been found to be very effective for people with HSV.
Olive Oil
Another “treatment” found more commonly in the kitchen! Olive oil is actually rich in a number of beneficial ingredients for our skin. It has high levels of antioxidants and is an excellent moisturizer.
Herpes sufferers often find that it is the ideal treatment for their condition and it can work quickly to reduce inflammation swelling and relieve sore, itchy skin. Although olive can be applied directly to the skin it is easier to create a simple home—made balm, which is equally effective.
Use a cup of olive oil, a few drops of Lavender oil (other essential oils can be used but Lavender is also good for treating herpes) and a spoonful of beeswax. Heat together in a pan and then leave to cool — applying once cooled to a comfortable temperature.
Herpes sufferers often find that it is the ideal treatment for their condition and it can work quickly to reduce inflammation swelling and relieve sore, itchy skin. Although olive can be applied directly to the skin it is easier to create a simple home—made balm, which is equally effective.
Use a cup of olive oil, a few drops of Lavender oil (other essential oils can be used but Lavender is also good for treating herpes) and a spoonful of beeswax. Heat together in a pan and then leave to cool — applying once cooled to a comfortable temperature.
Lavender
As mentioned above, in the section on olive oil, Lavender is believed to be another effective herpes cure. Lavender has anti-inflammatory qualities, antiviral qualities and antimicrobial properties. It has been used in cosmetic products and medical treatments for hundreds of years, probably since at least the times of Ancient Rome.
The diluted oil can be applied to sores but Lavender cream is widely available to purchase. Used widely by homeopathic practitioners to treat herpes outbreaks it is often combined with other essential oils. Popular and effective combinations include Lavender, Tea Tree, Myrrh and Peppermint. The latter is closely related to Lavender and has many of the same qualities. These plant extracts have also been studied in clinical settings and there is significant evidence of their efficacy.
The diluted oil can be applied to sores but Lavender cream is widely available to purchase. Used widely by homeopathic practitioners to treat herpes outbreaks it is often combined with other essential oils. Popular and effective combinations include Lavender, Tea Tree, Myrrh and Peppermint. The latter is closely related to Lavender and has many of the same qualities. These plant extracts have also been studied in clinical settings and there is significant evidence of their efficacy.
Ice Packs
Not strictly speaking a herbal remedy! An ice pack is a simple and fast- acting pain relief treatment for herpes sores. Simply take cubes wrapped in cloth and apply to the affected area. Ice will reduce swelling, irritation and pain relief, almost instantly. Be careful not to spread the infection when using this method, simply use one piece of cloth and ice per sore. Particularly effective for HSV1 this also works for HSV2 but may be less comfortable!
Supplements to Treat Herpes
There are three dietary supplements that are commonly recommended both by herpes sufferers and by clinicians. Clinical trials have supported the claims of those who believe that these supplements to treat the condition are highly effective. The supplements, Lysine, Propolis and Zinc are described below. Although effective they may not be suitable for all individuals so should be taken only afler medical advice has confirmed it will be safe for you to do so. Long term use is not recommended with any of these supplements
Lysine
This is an amino-acid that is an essential part of the human diet. Foods from which we normally receive our dose include fish, chicken, potatoes and eggs. Studies suggest that lysine may help to reduce the number of outbreaks of herpes so this taking lysine as a supplement may be most appropriate to those who suffer regular and frequent occurrences of the virus. The recommended dose is between 1g and 3g per day. Long term use of Lysine supplements is not recommended however. Ideally, those who suffer from repeated bouts of herpes should consider taking the supplement during times of increased risk of an outbreak or when the normal triggers to an outbreak occur.
Propolis
This natural product, a type of resin made by bees, is hailed as a miracle cure for a number of conditions. The resin is packed full of beneficial flavonoids and antioxidants which are known to fight infections and are also excellent for developing our immune system. Studies are limited on the effect on herpes, but Propolis has been shown to fight off HSV1 and HSV2 in test tube experiments. In trials the effect on individuals with herpes has shown that existing sores and blisters are reduced, heal quicker and generally recovery is faster. Many people who suffer from repeated outbreaks of herpes have found Propolis to be an excellent way to relieve the condition and to aid speedy recovery. It is important to note that some people can be allergic to Propolis and those with Asthma should avoid using it. If in any doubt consult your doctor before using the product.
Zinc Supplements and Creams
This mineral has been shown to be effective against HSV1 and HSV2 in test tube experiments. Zinc based creams also appear to be more effective than standard medical treatments for both forms of herpes. However, although required as part of our mineral intake, zinc can also be toxic to humans (in high doses) and it may also interact with other medications — particularly those used during cancer treatment. While zinc appears to be very useful at reducing the outbreak's severity, and the length of time the infection lasts, it's important to speak to your doctor before using the supplement.
Body Alkalinity
Keeping your liver clean is an integral part of keeping the herpes virus under control. Steps you can take include limiting your consumption of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco. You should also limit your intake of coffee, soda, chocolate, and peanut butter as these tend to be acid compounds which can exacerbate the virus.
Herpes Lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle can greatly contribute to less outbreaks. Steps you can take include using a natural soap to cleanse the affected area two times a day during outbreaks. You can also try an epsom salt bath to treat dry and flakey sin. These are all positive steps you can take to naturally treat the herpes virus while strengthening your immune system and living a health life.
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