Herpes is a virus that results in oral or genital blisters among those who contract it. These outbreaks are usually very unpredictable and can be quite uncomfortable. For this reason, it is very important to find a herpes natural remedy that will assist in alleviating outbreaks.
Many foods will assist in keeping the herpes virus dormant. Foods that will be of benefit the immune system include berries, kiwi, garlic, and sweet potatoes. These foods normally help to keep the herpes virus at bay.
Herpes causes tender sores and ulcers to erupt on sensitive areas of the body. The pain and discomfort can be relieved through basic good hygiene, home remedies, herbs, and medication. A patient should not only treat the lesions but also avoid or at least manage stress because it is one of the factors that triggers outbreaks.
In caring for the sores, always make sure they are clean and dry. Do not apply an over the-counter cream or ointment because it will not allow the sores to dry properly. Use soap, salt water or bicarbonate of soda to clean them. Sores should never be popped or skinned using the fingernails or any sharp object. To allow airing, avoid wearing tight clothing and always use loose cotton underwear. Using a hairdryer to dry the genitals will prevent the sores from being touched. To make them dry faster, compress the blister with vinegar and tepid water for 10 minutes twice daily. Ice wrapped in a clean cloth will relieve the pain. This should be alternately applied for ten minutes, and removed for five minutes. Taking a warm bath two three times everyday is especially soothing. Covering the lesions with a non-stick dressing when going out will keep them from becoming aggravated when exposed to sunlight. A dressing will also prevent rubbing and will keep the virus from being transmitted to others.
Nutritional supplements help one to be more equipped to fight the symptoms. Taking Vitamin C and zinc aid in preventing outbreaks. Vitamin E shortens their duration and also relieves pain. Beta-carotene boosts the immune system and deters viruses from entering. Lysine is another pain reliever which also does the same thing. One excellent food is yogurt because it contains the live microorganism lactobacillus acidophilus that combats the disease. Foods that should be avoided are those that have high arginine content such as seeds, chocolate, oatmeal, raisins, nuts, etc.
A good home remedy that provides relief is carrot poultice (grated carrots wrapped in a hot moist cloth and applied to a sore or inflamed body part). This speeds up the healing of blisters, relieves pain and reduces glandular swelling. Herbal solutions for pain include lemon balm, lavender, Solanum nigrum, olive leaf extract, horsetail, gentian, hyssop, myrrh and many others. Herpes medications that doctors prescribe are pain killers, anti viral and anti-inflammatory drugs.
About the Author
Charles Volcalatte is a health and fitness researcher for www.end-herpes.com . He enjoys finding natural solutions to stop herpes.