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Natural Remedies For Herpes

Are there any home remedies for herpes?
(22 Oct 2008)

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There is no real home remedy for herpes - in fact, there is no cure for the infection at all, and all treatment, whether medical treatment or self care, is aimed at managing the symptoms of the disease, preventing permanent damage, and preventing the infection from spreading.

It is not clear which type of herpes you are suffering from - there are several different types, but the most common are caused by either the varicella zoster virus, which is primarily known for causing chicken pox, or by the herpes simplex virus. Although chicken pox is a highly contagious disease and is rather uncomfortable and troublesome, it is usually rather mild and does not last for very long.


An attack of chicken pox takes its natural course of around 10 days, after which it resolves itself. However, the cause of the infection - the varicella zoster virus - remains in the body for years, and even decades. For reasons that are not entirely clear, at any time subsequently, the virus can become active again and cause herpes zoster (which is also commonly known as shingles).


The type of herpes infection that is commonly known as just "herpes" is herpes simplex, so I assume that this is what you are suffering from. This type of herpes is transmitted only through physical contact, and causes blisters either around the mouth or on the genitals. It is important to visit a doctor if you think you have herpes, because your doctor will be able to properly identify what you are suffering from. Also, medications are available to reduce the severity and duration of the outbreaks, and there are no home remedies that have the same effect. Your doctor will also be able to provide medication that will reduce the chances of you transmitting the virus to your partner.

For the duration of an outbreak of herpes sores, you should entirely avoid having sex, but at other times, sex is fine as long as you use a condom. Both you and your partner should avoid touching the sores and the surrounding areas. You should keep the sores clean and dry at all times to avoid developing a secondary infection, but make sure that you wash your hands thoroughly each time you clean the sores.

Dietary supplements and herbal cures are sometimes recommended for herpes, but it is not yet clear how effective they are. Aloe seems to be quite effective at easing the symptoms, so you can regularly apply fresh aloe gel. As far as your diet goes, simply make sure that it is well balanced, with adequate amounts of fruit and vegetables.

answered by G R on 22 Oct 2008, 5:20:20

 

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