Overview:
Herpes is an infection caused by the herpes virus. There is no cure for herpes, but there are home remedies that can help ease the symptoms.
Sores on the skin are common symptoms of herpes. The most common areas affected by herpes are the mouth, genitals, and anal.
Herpes simplex viruses 1 (HSV-1) and 2 (HSV-2), are the two types. HSV-1 and HSV-2 both can cause genital herpes.
However, only HSV-1 can cause oral herpes.
This article will cover several home remedies that can be used to treat the symptoms of herpes. This article will also discuss prevention and when to visit a doctor.
The symptoms can be managed with home remedies such as honey, garlic, and compresses.
Compresses:
Hot or cold compresses can be used to ease pain and itching caused by herpes.
Heat can be used to treat blisters that may form during an oral herpes infection.
It is simple to make a cold compress at home. Apply the ice pack to the area by wrapping a flannel around it.
However, you should not apply the ice packs directly to the skin. You can also wash the skin gently with saltwater.
Honey:
A 2019 study found that kanuka honey is as effective as antiviral creams in treating oral herpes.
The study found that the antiviral cream took 8 days to heal and honey took 9 days.
Oral herpes can be treated in as little as 1-2 weeks. The study didn’t include any patients who were not given treatment.
It is not known if the healing properties of kanuka honey are exclusive to it or if they would apply to any honey.
Garlic:
Studies from older studies indicate that garlic could have properties that lower the activity of many viruses, including HSV.
According to some studies, allicin, which is a compound found in garlic, may be effective in fighting HSV.
There is no evidence that garlic can treat, prevent, or cure HSV. There are many ways to use garlic.
Vitamins:
Vitamins can help reduce symptoms and protect the body from the virus.
Low vitamin D levels can make it more likely that herpes infections will recur.
Vitamin D can help protect the body from infection by strengthening the immune system.
Vitamin E’s antioxidative properties may help lower stress levels in the immune system due to HSV infections. This could reduce the risk of getting infected.
Current clinical trials are being conducted to test Vitamin E against herpes.
Vitamins can be increased by making changes to your diet or taking vitamins. Vitamin D can be increased by exposing the skin to sunlight.
Gels:
Petroleum jelly can be applied to genital herpes. This will reduce discomfort from urinating.
Before and after applying the jelly, it is essential to wash your hands. Other gels for HSV can be purchased at a pharmacy.
Changes in diet:
Pomegranate has been used as a home remedy to treat infections for centuries. Zinc in pomegranate can reduce HSV infection.
The following are other dietary suggestions:
- Although evidence is mixed about the effectiveness of increasing intakes of the amino acid Lysine, it can be done.
- Avoid the amino acid Arginine
- Avoid excessive smoking and red wine, and caffeine consumption
- Food products that can cause allergic reactions must be identified and removed
Rich sources of arginine include peanuts, fish, nuts, and soy protein. Lysine can be found in Avocados, cottage cheeses, pork, and chicken.
Supplements:
Studies from older years suggest that these supplements might be effective in controlling HSV symptoms include:
- Lysine
- Zinc
- Adenosine monophosphate
- Lemon balm
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
According to the International Council on Amino Acid Science (ICIAAS), taking lysine supplements may prevent cold sores. This evidence came from older sources.
Experts found that a combination of low arginine and a daily intake of at least 1 gram of lysine can help patients manage their symptoms.
Before taking any supplements, always consult your doctor. They can interact with other medications and have adverse effects.
Supplements are not monitored by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Trusted Source does not have access to this information.
Oils:
Certain essential oils may be used to reduce the spread of HSV-1 viruses.
These oils may be of assistance:
- Garden thyme
- A flowering plant called Zataria multiflora
- Eucalyptus caesia
- Rosemary
- Wormwood
- Hinoki cypress
- Tripterygium hypoglaucum is a medicinal plant
- Compounds in the oil and essential oils of cinnamon and basil
A person can use oils for oral consumption in addition to bathwater or in a diffuser. They can also be mixed with diluting oils and applied to the area.
It is important to use diluting oils. The oil can cause skin irritations if it is applied directly to the skin.
Some examples of diluting oils or carrier oils are olive oil and almond oil.
Researchers are conducting clinical trials to determine if other home remedies are possible, such as organic coconut oil and sesame oil.
Evidence is still lacking to support the claim that certain oils can be used to treat HSV.
Medication:
There are medicines that can reduce the risk of spreading the HSV and decrease the severity and frequency of the symptoms.
Antiviral medications are the main medication doctors will prescribe. These medications include penciclovir and famciclovir.
Antiviral medication can be prescribed by a doctor to be taken orally, intravenously, or as a topical cream.
Prevention:
Most cases of herpes do not cause symptoms. If there are symptoms, should not engage in oral, vaginal, or anal sex.
Condom and other barriers may provide some protection but may not completely stop transmission.
It is best to openly discuss HSV with any new partner and possibly have them undergo a test.
It is important to inform any sexual partners who have been diagnosed with HSV that they are being tested and treated.
When should you see a doctor?
If a person has had sexual activity with someone who has herpes, or if they are experiencing symptoms, they should consult a doctor.
A doctor should be consulted if a pregnant woman suffering from HSV has been diagnosed.
Although it is rare, the HSV may be transmitted to the fetus during or shortly after birth.
This can lead to neonatal herpes which can be very dangerous.
Summary:
HSV-1, HSV-2 can cause oral and genital herpes infections. Herpes is not curable. The infection will continue to affect the body for the rest of your life.
There are medications that can reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms.
Some home remedies, such as oils, vitamins, and compresses, may also work. It is possible to make dietary changes that will help.
Ask your friends and loved ones for support.
If you’re feeling anxious or depressed, consider joining a support group or seeking counseling. Believe in your ability to take control of the pain…
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FAQs
Q: Can herpes be cured?
A: Is it possible to cure herpes? Herpes is not curable. There are medications that can reduce or prevent outbreaks. These anti-herpes medications can be taken every day, making it less likely that the infection will spread to your partner(s).
Q: What causes herpes on skin?
A: The herpes simplex virus spreads from one person to another through close contact. Touching a herpes blister can lead to the transmission of herpes simplex virus. However, most people get herpes simplex from someone who has not had sores.
Q: How long do herpes sores last?
A: Herpes outbreaks typically last for between 2-6 weeks. Recurrent herpes infections resolve much faster. Recurrent herpes outbreaks will usually resolve in a matter of weeks or sooner.
Q: What are the stages of herpes?
A: Stage 1: Itching and tingling occur about 24 hours before blisters appear. Stage 2: The fluid-filled blisters begin to appear. Stage 3: The blisters burst and ooze, creating painful sores. Stage 4: The blisters dry out, scab and cause itching and cracking.
Q: How can a woman tell if she has herpes?
A: The 2 week period following the infected person’s transmission of the virus usually marks the beginning of a herpes outbreak. You may notice the first symptoms as a burning sensation, tingling or itching in your vaginal and anal areas. Flu-like symptoms include fever.