How to Treat Genital Herpes Naturally

Herpes flare-ups can be painful and irritating, but they don't have to rule your life. There are some things you can do to reduce discomfort and help speed healing.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• L-lysine
• St. John's Wort
• Acidophilus
• Baking Soda
• Echinacea
• Goldenseal
• Tea Tree Oils
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Zinc

1. Use an ice pack to help alleviate pain and swelling.

2. Take a warm bath. Add baking soda to help reduce itching and pain.

3. Keep genital area dry and clean.

4. Avoid having sex until blisters have completely healed.

5. Take supplements that inhibit viral growth at the first sign of an outbreak. Consider taking the amino acid L-lysine. Antioxidant vitamins and zinc may also help.

6. Boost your immune system. Take echinacea, goldenseal and vitamin C daily. Get plenty of rest and reduce stress.

7. Treat the blisters topically. Dab tea tree oil, a natural antiseptic, at either full or half strength directly on them several times a day.

8. Encourage healing by avoiding foods that contain arginine, another amino acid that suppresses lysine: nuts, dairy products, meat, seeds, oats, peanuts and corn.

Tips & Warnings

• Although herpes simplex type I typically occurs in the mouth and type II in the genital area, oral sex can spread either to both parts of the body.

• Women who have genital herpes should have regular pap smears as herpes can increase the risk of cervical cancer.

• Cut back or divide vitamin C doses if diarrhea occurs.

• If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.