Herpes is caused by the herpes virus. There are many different variations of the herpes virus. The most common being hsv1 (herpes simplex virus 1) ; and hsv2 (herpes simplex virus 1) .

Hsv1 causes what is commonly known as “Oral herpes” . The most common physical form of hsv1 is colds sores. Statistics indicate that 90 % of adults have hsv1.

Hsv2 is the most common STD (sexually transmitted disease) among adults in the world. Commonly known as Genital Herpes, this disease is believed to be incurable; however there are treatment options available that can suppress the herpes outbreaks .Even though herpes is incurable, with proper medication all herpes symptoms (outbreaks etc) can be cured. This is why some people only experience outbreaks once every several years. And in some cases the herpes symptoms are cured for life.

Home Treatment: Herpes

Conventional herpes medical treatment (I.e. antiviral, OTC Medication) can cost a fortune especially if you do not have medical aid. A much cheaper and at times safer option is Home treatment for herpes.

Home treatment herpes can be sub categorized into food, herbs and others like hygiene.

These are discussed in greater detail below:

Home Treatment herpes: Food

Research has proven that there are certain foods that minimize the re-occurrence of herpes outbreaks. Food high in lysine is one recommendation.

Below are some examples of “lysine rich” foods:

Avocado
Plain yogurt
Milk
Fish
Potatoes
Eggs
Cheese
Beef
Chicken
Broccoli

Some foods that should be avoided:

Nuts
Raisins
Chocolate
Coconut
Peanuts

All the food listed above are high in Arginine, which is an amino acid required for the replication of the herpes virus. Now the reason a “lysine rich” diet may prevent outbreaks is because Lysine slows down the metabolism of Arginine. Resulting in a “slower replication rate” of the herpes virus and which causes fewer outbreaks!

Home Treatment herpes: Herbs

Herbal treatment is another great alternative to OTC medication. Below are some examples of herbal herpes treatment:

Green and white tea – Frequent consumption of tea has proven to speed up the healing process of herpes outbreaks.

Eleutherococcus or Siberian ginseng – Though it has no known effect on hsv1, siberian ginseng has been proven to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms of herpes hsv2.

Other herbal remedies include thyme and lemon balm.

Home Treatment herpes: Other treatment alternatives include the following: .

Warm Baths: Warm baths have helped many and might just work for you. But make sure that you do not use a towel to dry your genital or any other affected areas. Rather use a hair blow dryer to avoid spreading of the sores.

Lose Clothes and underwear: Avoid tight clothes and underwear as these can cause a lot of discomfort and friction against the infected area.

Ice: Placing ice packs on the affected area cause also numb the pain a bit

Cold tea bags – when applied to infected area have proven to have an antiviral effect on herpes symptoms. This method is most effective when used during the early stages of an outbreak.

Each of the above Home Treatment for herpes has been proven to be effective. However not all will be as effective on everybody. The best way is to try them out and discover what works best for you. Consulting your doctor would also be a great idea before trying out any of the above.

Overall Home Treatment for herpes has helped thousands (if not millions) of people living happily with herpes. Remember, herpes is not a death sentence. You can live a normal healthy and happy life with herpes.

For more information about Herpes, visit Herpes Treatment page