Though the use of anti-viral drugs is most commonly recommended for providing relief from symptoms of herpes, one can also try alternative treatments for herpes. Scroll down to find out more about natural remedies for herpes.
Oral herpes and genital herpes are both medical conditions that are caused by herpes simplex viruses. Herpes refers to a group of viruses that cause very painful blisters and sores. Herpes viruses that are responsible for causing oral herpes and genital herpes are referred to as herpes simplex-1 and herpes simplex-2 respectively. As the name suggests, oral herpes is characterized by development of cold sores or fluid-filled blisters around the mouth. On the other hand, genetic herpes is associated with appearance of painful blisters around the genital area. Both of these conditions cause a great deal of discomfort.
Once the virus enters the body, it lies dormant in the nerve roots, and can therefore, get reactivated anytime later. Since the virus can get transmitted to others through physical contact, there is a need to take precautionary measures during an outbreak. Pain, itching, burning sensation on the skin and formation of fluid filled blisters are some of the most common symptoms of herpes. Since this infectious disease is caused by a virus, anti-viral drugs are usually recommended for the treatment. One can also try alternative treatments for herpes so as to alleviate its discomforting symptoms. Scroll down to find out more on effective natural cure for herpes.
Alternative Treatment Options for Herpes
Though the conventional herpes treatment usually involves topical application of anti-viral creams or use of oral anti-viral drugs, the natural remedies for herpes are fast gaining popularity. The alternative treatment options usually involve the use of natural herbs to cure herpes. One can also try acupuncture. This alternative healing therapy involves the insertion of needles at specific acupuncture points in order to promote healing. Since stress can also trigger a herpes outbreak, practicing meditation techniques can also help.
Since people with a weakened immune system are more vulnerable to outbreaks in future, there is a need to strengthen the immune system by following a diet rich in antioxidants and other nutrients. One can use herbal infusions or apply certain herbs to cure herpes. Here are some herbal remedies will surely help in alleviating the symptoms of herpes to a great extent.
Prunella Vulgaris
This is a small flower which is also popularly referred to as Self-heal. It is used in many herbal supplements. Manufacturers of herbal supplements combined Self-heal with other anti-herpetic agents such as lysine, vitamin C, zinc and olive leaf extract so as to create effective herpes medication.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is believed to significantly bring down the pain and irritation experienced by patients. Lemon balm is also believed to reduce both the duration as well as the frequency of outbreak of herpes. A few drops of lemon balm may be added to your usual daily application cream. Though one can also brew the leaves of lemon balm and make herbal tea, applying it topically is regarded to be a more effective form of treatment.
Thyme
Thyme is believed to have tremendous antiseptic properties. It is also said to stimulate the production of leukocytes. Thyme is commonly used in cooking and can help in preventing outbreaks in future. One can also have a brewed concoction of thyme once a day.
Siberian Ginseng
Also referred to as Eleutherococcus, Siberian ginseng is believed to be an effective antidote when it comes to genital herpes. The outbreak of herpes has been medically proven to be linked to stress. Since Siberian ginseng is believed to have much potency in shielding one from stress, it can help in prevention of herpes. Tinctures or fluid extracts taken over a period of 21 days is said to provide an effective protection from herpes. Pregnant women or nursing mothers, however, must refrain from using Siberian ginseng. Those suffering from high blood pressure must also avoid using this herbal remedy.
Black Tea
Perhaps our most favorite brew is also a potent herpes combatant. Tea contains immunity boosting polyphenols and flavonoids, and also contains an anti-viral agent called tannin. One may therefore, benefit by applying warm black tea bags on cold sores. The healing effect of black tea on sores is attributed anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties of tannin.
Besides the aforementioned herbal remedies, application of aloe vera is also believed to help in soothing the irritated skin. Following a diet that is rich in an amino acid called lysine may also help. You can also add Epsom salt to warm bath water. Taking bath with this water will help in drying the sores. Since this infection can spread through physical contact, wash your hands with an anti-bacterial hand wash, every time you touch the affected skin. Though these alternative treatments would certainly help in easing the symptoms, it’s better to consult a herbal practitioner before using herbs for the treatment of herpes.
Since the virus can get reactivated due to stress, trying relaxation techniques is another precautionary measure that may prove beneficial. Lowered immunity caused due to poor lifestyle choices, may make you susceptible to herpes, so make the necessary lifestyle-related changes soon.
