Acne Treatments Guide - Articles

Although herpes is generally not a dangerous condition, you probably know by now that it can be very uncomfortable! One of the first things you should remember is that you need to avoid sexual contact during the herpes outbreak.

Wait until all sign of the blisters have gone - when the scabs have fallen off, and new skin has grown in its place. While you're waiting, there are several things you can do to ease the discomfort naturally. An ice pack will generally ease the pain and swelling associated with genital herpes, so it's a good first step.

Another thing you can do is take a warm bath with baking soda. Baking soda is great because it can help with the pain and reduce all the annoying itching, too. When you're done with your bath, be sure you dry yourself carefully and thoroughly. You'll reduce the uncomfortable symptoms by keeping the affected areas clean and dry.

Another thing you can do is take some natural supplements to slow the viral growth that occurs during a herpes outbreak. Zinc and other antioxidants could help you as well. Also, try an amino acid such as L-lysine.

In the meantime, try to avoid those foods that could suppress L-lysine. That includes dairy products, nuts, meat, oats, seeds, and corn. Yes, it's true you aren't left with many food options, but it's better than a lengthy outbreak.

You can also help speed up your healing with immune supplements. These include vitamin C, Echinacea, and goldenseal. But remember, if you're allergic to ragweed, avoid Echinacea! Of course, remember that sleep and reduced stress are nature's best immune boosters.

Treat your blisters with a topical solution. Use something like tea tree oil, a natural topical antiseptic. It can be applied several times daily at half or full strength.

If none of these natural approaches helps to get your herpes outbreak under control, get in touch with your doctor. There are several medications out there that can help relieve your symptoms, and your doctor can prescribe one.

Just remember that there isn't a single treatment that can cure herpes, nor can they prevent the disease from spreading. That goes for natural and pharmaceutical remedies. You can spread the disease even through oral sexual contact. So wait a while and take care of yourself and your partner first!