Remedies for Genital Herpes
Genital Herpes is a contagious viral infection. It is a sexually transmitted disease and is caused by the herpes simplex virus, which are of two types. Type 1 (HSV-1) or oral herpes causes fever blisters and cold sores on the mouth, lips and face. Sometimes it also leads to sores in the genital area. Type 2 (HSV-2) causes painful blisters and sores in the genitals.
Both types of herpes virus are transmitted by kissing and direct sexual contact. Even sharing eating utensils or other direct contact may cause it. The virus may spread from a cold sore to the genitals if proper hygiene such as washing of hands is not maintained.
Warning: Remember that herpes can spread even though the virus is not in an active state (even if a blister is not present).
Symptoms: The onset of herpes usually starts two weeks after the initial infection. Painful sores appear in the genital area, accompanied by flu-like symptoms like fever and swollen glands. Sometimes however, the sores are small and look like a rash or insect bites.
Home Remedies: While you will need proper medication to treat herpes, here are a few home remedies to provide relief from the pain and itching.
• Pat some baking soda on the sores. This helps them to dry up.
• Cornstarch also has a similar effect. Pat it on the sores with a soft cotton ball.
• Drink some peppermint tea to reduce the fever and pain. Don’t throw away the used tea bag. Place it directly on the sores. The tannic acid is soothing.
• Take some crushed ice, put it in a plastic packet and apply it on the sores for a few minutes at a time. Don’t leave it for too long or you may damage the tissues.
• You can also apply cotton balls soaked in chilled milk on the sores to get relief.
• Aloe vera contains Lysine, which is soothing and gives relief from the pain and itching. Apply fresh gel directly, and it would be even better if you cooled it for some time in the refrigerator.
• Heat a cup of olive oil, and mix some lavender oil and bee wax in it. After it is cold, apply it on the herpes sores.
• Salt baths may give some relief and help the sores to dry out.
• Drink lots of water to flush out toxins.
• Eat a nutritious diet to boost your immune system, and help fight the virus.
• Maintain proper hygiene to prevent it from spreading to your partner. Do not keep touching the sores. Wash your hands frequently, paying proper attention to the fingernails.
• Avoid wearing tight-fitting underwear and trousers, and those made of synthetic fibers. Stick to light cotton fabrics.
• Avoid soaking in a tub as the virus can infect the tub. Showering is a better option.
• Avoid sex during this time, even with a condom, since a condom does not cover the total area of the sores.
