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DESCRIPTION
Herpes is a viral infection of the skin caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). Classically, HSV-1 caused a mouth and lip rash (i.e., cold sore), while HSV-2 caused the genital herpes. Over the last decade, it has become clear that either strain of this virus can cause either rash, though 75% of genital herpes is caused by HSV-2.
Herpes is a virus infection of the genitals transmitted by sexual relations (intercourse or oral sex). It can affect both sexes of sexually active persons and may involve the labia, vagina, cervix, thighs, buttocks (sometimes) and penis. Genital herpes is often found in the presence of other sexually transmitted diseases.
One in five of the population has genital herpes while almost three out of four people have a history of cold sores caused by the Herpes virus.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Pain blisters, preceded by itching, burning or irritation on the vaginal lips or penis. In women, the blisters may extend into the vagina to the cervix and urethra. After a few days, the blisters rupture and leave painful shallow ulcers which last 1 to 3 weeks.
Difficult, painful urination.
Enlarged lymph glands.
Fever and general ill feeling.
CAUSES
Usually caused by herpes type 2 virus (HSV-2). Herpes type 1 virus (HSV-1) causes common cold sores, which appear around the mouth, but can sometimes cause genital herpes.
Genital herpes is transmitted by a sexual partner who has active herpes lesions. Lesions may be on the genitals, hands, lips or mouth (including type 1 virus). Once transmitted, incubation period is 2 to 7 days. Sometimes, the infection can be acquired without any symptoms only to have a delayed outbreak.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Serious illness that has lowered resistance.
Use of immunosuppressive or anticancer drugs.
Stress (increases susceptibility to primary infection or a recurrence). Stress may lead to diminished efficiency of the immune responses that usually suppress growth of the virus.
Smoking.
Other "triggers" that can cause a recurrence include genital trauma, menstruation, sunbathing, and existing infection of some other type.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Avoid sexual intercourse if either partner has blisters or sores.
Have the male use a condom during intercourse if either sex partner has inactive genital herpes (especially important if the infected partner has frequent recurrences).
Avoid oral sex with a partner who has cold sores on the mouth.
If you are pregnant, tell your midwife or health care provider if you have had herpes or any genital lesions in the past. Precautions will be taken to prevent infection of the baby. This viral infection may occur in babies delivered through the birth canal of an infected woman resulting in a neonatal infection which often causes whole-body and brain infection in the baby. A cesarean delivery is usually recommended as a preventive measure when a woman has active lesions. It is rare that the newborn will contact the virus when a woman is not having an active outbreak at the time of the delivery and a vaginal delivery may be possible.
Avoid stress where possible (Very important!).
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Genital herpes is currently considered incurable, but symptoms and recurrence can be relieved with treatment.
During symptom-free periods, the virus returns to its dormant state. Symptoms recur when the virus is reactivated. Recurrent symptoms are not new infections.
The discomfort varies from person to person and from time to time in the same person. In most people, the first herpes infection is much more uncomfortable than following ones.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Generalized disease and possibly death in persons who must take anticancer drugs or immunosuppressive drugs.
Transmittal of life-threatening systemic herpes to a newborn infant from an infected mother.
Secondary bacterial infection.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosis is usually determined by the appearance of the lesions, however, confirmation may be made by a laboratory study of fluid from the lesion.
TREATMENT
Treatment is directed toward relieving symptoms, reducing recurrence pattern and preventing complications.
Women should wear cotton underpants or pantyhose with a cotton crotch.
To reduce pain during urination, women may urinate in a shower, or urinate through a tubular device, such as a toilet paper roll or plastic cup with the bottom cut out, or pour a cup of lukewarm water over the genitals while urinating.
Warm baths with a tablespoon of salt added can ease some of the discomfort caused by the blisters.
Consider life-style changes to avoid emotional stress.
It is usually recommended that women have a annual Pap smear and physical examination to rule out complications.
Additional information available from:
The Herpes Resource Center
P.O. Box 13827
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
(919) 361-8488
MEDICATION
Acyclovir (an antiviral medication) in oral form is often prescribed for treatment of initial episodes and management of recurrent genital herpes. For some people, it may be prescribed to prevent an outbreak. A topical form of acyclovir is available, but is not as effective.
Medication may produce unwanted, possibly serious, side effects and my not be totally effective in relieving or suppressing the outbreak of genital herpes or the contagious transmission of genital herpes to others.
Use mild painkillers, such as acetaminophen.
Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), a byproduct of wood processing, is a liquid that can be applied topically to relieve pain and promote the healing of herpes outbreaks. Note: Only DMSO from a health food store should be used. Commercial-grade DMSO found in hardware stores is not suitable for healing purposes. The use of DMSO may result in a garlicky body odor. This is temporary, and is not a cause for concern.
Isotretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A, has given dramatic results with herpes simplex infections.
ACTIVITY
Avoid sexual intercourse until symptoms disappear.
DIET
See Herpes Virus Infection for more information about herpes and holistic self-help suggestions and nutritional therapies to help control outbreaks.
DIET SUGGESTIONS
Avoid alcohol, processed foods, colas, white flour products, sugar, refined carbohydrates, coffee, and drugs to lessen the chance of an outbreak. Herbal teas are beneficial (see herbs), but all other teas should be avoided.
Drink steam-distilled water.
Eat the following in moderation during outbreaks: almonds, barley, cashews, cereals (grains), chicken, chocolate, corn, dairy products, meat, nuts and seeds, oats, and peanuts. These contain L-arginine, an amino acid that suppresses L-Lysine, the amino acid that retards virus growth.
Do not consume citrus fruits and juices while the virus is active.
Red Marine Algae: Current research information has shown that Red marine algae has strong antiviral properties and has proved effective when tested on the herpes virus. Red marine algae contains sulfated polysaccharides which enhance the immune system's antiviral response, inhibiting the virus. Red Marine Algae can be purchased from www.globalherbalsupplies.com or from selected health food stores and specialty shops.
HERBS
Applying black walnut or goldenseal extract to the affected area may help. Black Walnut Green Hull Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Black Walnut Green Hull Tincture, Extra Strength, New Action, 1 fl. oz.
Herpes treatment should include cayenne (capsicum), echinacea, myrrh, red clover, and St. Johns wort. Cayenne Pepper, Nature's Way, 450 mg, 180 Caps, Cayenne Pepper Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Echinacea Purpurea, Nature's Way, 400 mg, 100 Caps, Myrrh Oil (20%) in Grape Seed Oil base, NOW Foods, 100% Natural, 1 fl. oz., Myrrh Gum (Commiphora myrrha) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk, Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) Herb Powder, 4 oz. Bulk, Red Clover Blossom & Herb, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 100 Caps, Red Clover Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., St. John's Wort, Nature's Way, 350 mg, 180 Caps, St. John's Wort Tincture, Alcohol Free, 1 fl. oz.
Tea tree oil is a powerful natural antiseptic. During a herpes outbreak, dab it on the affected area several times a day, either full strength or, if that is too strong, diluted with distilled water or cold-pressed vegetable oil. Do not get tea tree oil close to the eye area. Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia), 100% Pure Oil, 2 fl. oz.,
Goldenseal is a natural antibiotic. It can be taken in capsule or tea form. Caution: Do not take goldenseal internally on a daily basis for more than one week at a time, do not use it during pregnancy, and use with caution if you are allergic to ragweed. Goldenseal Root (Hydrastis canadensis) Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Goldenseal Root (Hydrastis canadensis) Herb, Nature's Way, 400 mg, 180 Caps
Licorice root inhibits both the growth and cell-damaging effects of herpes simplex. If you are using licorice, increase your potassium intake. Caution: Do not use this herb on a daily basis for more than seven days in a row. Avoid it completely if you have high blood pressure. Licorice Root, Certified, Nature's Way, 450 mg, 100 Caps, Licorice Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Note; Bulk herbs are available from Mountain Rose Herbs. See link below. Tinctures, extracts, and tablets are available from HerbalRemedies.com. See link below.
Nutrients Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Very Important L-Lysine 500-1,000 mg daily, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B-6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. When the amount of lysine present exceeds the amount of arginine, the growth of the herpes virus is inhibited. Caution: Do not take this supplement for longer than 6 months at a time. L-Lysine, Pharmaceutical Grade, stable Tartrate Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps, L-Lysine, Highest Potency, Pharmaceutical Grade, NOW Foods, 1000 mg, 100 Tabs Oxy C-2 Gel from American Biologics Apply to affected areas as directed on label. A useful antiviral, antifungal, and bactericide. Vitamin A 50,000 IU daily. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 10,000 IU daily. Important for healing. Prevents spreading of infection. Use emulsion for easier assimilation and greater safety at higher doses. Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Softgels, Beta Carotene, (Natural Dunaliella salina), Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels Vitamin B complex 50 mg 3 times daily, with meals. Combats the virus and helps to keep it from spreading. Also works with lysine to prevent outbreaks. Use hypoallergenic form. Ultimate B, B Complex Formula, Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs Vitamin C 5,000-10,000 mg daily, in divided doses. Needed to prevent sores and inhibit the growth of the virus. Use an esterified or buffered form. Vitamin C Liquid, w/Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz., Dynamic Health, Vitamin C 1000 w/Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 Vcaps Plus
Bioflavonoids30-60 mg daily, in divided doses. Works with vitamin C. Vitamin C Liquid, w/Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz., Dynamic Health, Vitamin C 1000 w/Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 Vcaps Zinc 50-100 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. Boosts immune function and healing. For genital herpes, use a chelate form. For oral herpes, Use zinc gluconate lozenges. Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Ionic Zinc, 50 mg, 2 fl. oz., Trace Minerals, Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps, Zinc Lozenges w/Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges Important Acidophilus As directed on label, 3 times daily. Take on an empty stomach. Needed for the production of the B vitamins. Prevents overgrowth of harmful microorganisms in the intestines. Acidophilus & Bifidus, NOW Foods, 8 Billion, 60 Caps, Acidophilus Powder, Non Dairy, 4 oz. Bulk, Acidophilus, NOW Foods, 3 Billion, 90 Caps Dioxychlor from American Biologics As directed on label. An important antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal agent. Egg lecithin As directed on label. Helps control the virus. Lecithin, Vegetarian Granules, NOW Foods, 97% Phosphatides, Pure and Fresh, 1 lb. Essential fatty acids (primrose oil and salmon oil are good sources) As directed on label. Needed for cell protection. Evening Primrose Oil, NOW Foods, 100% Pure, 4 fl. oz., Evening Primrose Oil, Cold Pressed, Nature's Way, 1300 mg, 120 Softgels, Salmon Oil, 2000 mg, 120 EPA/80 DHA, NOW Foods, 250 Softgels Garlic (Kyolic or Fresh) Kyolic: 3 capsules 3 times daily with meals.
Fresh: 3-4 cloves with meals 3 times daily.An immune system stimulant and a natural antibiotic. Odorless Garlic Supplement, NOW Foods, 2500 mg, 250 Softgels, Garlic Oil Tincture, Alcohol Free, Nature's Way, 1 fl. oz. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) As directed on label. Reduces infection and speeds healing. A powerful free radical destroyer. GliSODin Antioxidant Catalyst, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 90 Vcaps Or
Cell Guard from Biotec FoodsAs directed on label. An antioxidant complex that contains SOD. GliSODin Antioxidant Catalyst, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 90 Vcaps Vitamin E 600 IU daily. Important in healing. Prevents spread of the infection. Use emulsion form for easier assimilation. Vitamin E 1000, NOW Foods, 1000 IU, 100 Gels, Vitamin E, 400 IU, 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 100 Gels, Vitamin E Skin Cream, NOW Foods, 28,000 IU, 4 oz. Helpful Calcium
And
Magnesium1,500 mg daily.
750 mg daily.To relieve stress and anxiety. Use chelated forms. Just An Ounce, Calcium & Magnesium Liquid, Almond Flavor, 16 fl. oz., Cal-Mag Pre-Chelated Calcium &Magnesium, Vital Earth, 240 Gelcaps Dimethyl glycine (DMG) (Aangamik DMG from FoodScience Labs) 2 tablets dissolved in the mouth twice daily. Enhances utilization of oxygen by tissue. DMG Supplement N,N Dimethyl Glycine, NOW Foods, 125 mg, 100 Caps Maitake
Or
Shiitake
Or
ReishiAs directed on label.
As directed on label.
As directed on label.Mushrooms that have immune-boosting and antiviral properties. Three Mushroom Tincture, Red Reishi, Shiitake & Maitake Mushroom Extracts, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Multivitamin & mineral complex As directed on label. All nutrients are needed for enhanced healing of all bodily tissues. Take a hypoallergenic form. Damage Control Master Formula, High Potency Multi-Vitamin, 60 Packets (30 day supply), Alive! Whole Food Energizer, Multi-Vitamin & Mineral W/ Naturally Occurring Iron (No Iron Added), Nature's way, 180 Tabs, Alive! Whole Food Energizer, Rice & Pea Protein w/ Naturally Occurring Iron, Ultra-Shake Powder, Apple Cinnamon Flavor, Nature's Way, 2.2 lb. Proteolytic enzymes As directed on label 2-3 times daily. Take between meals. Helps protect against infection, works on undigested food remaining in the colon. Caution: Do not give this supplement to a child. MetabolicZyme (Hypoallergenic), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 900 Tabs Raw thymus glandular 500 mg twice daily. Enhances immune function. Caution: Do not give this supplement to a child. Thymus Organic Glandular (Hypoallergenic), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 75 Caps
Cold Sore Cream, Homeopathic w/ Active Zinc, Novitra, Boericke & Tafel, 0.25 oz.
Boericke & Tafel Cold Sore Cream was scientifically researched and clinically studied to provide a safe treatment that speeds healing while reducing symptoms.
NutriBiotic Skin Ointment, w/ Grapefruit Seed Extract & Lysine, 0.5 oz.
NutriBiotic Skin Ointment with GSE can be used topically for such things as scrapes, scratches and cuts. It can also be used on the lips and in the mouth on cold sores and canker sores.
Samento (Uncaria Tomentosa), Extra Strength (100 Times More Effective than regular Cat's Claw!), 0.5% POA, 600 mg, 30 Caps
Samento is beneficial in the treatment of a wide range of immune system related conditions. These include but are not limited to cancer, arthritis, bursitis, rheumatism, allergies, ulcers, systemic candidiasis, all forms of herpes, diabetes, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, intestinal disorders and HIV infection.
Wonder Cure Powder, 1 oz. Bulk
Wonder Cure is a fast and effective topical medication for the treatment of Herpes simplex labialis and provides instant relief for other common skin infections such as cold sores, ringworm and impetigo.
AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound), NOW Foods, Vegetarian, 500 mg, 60 Vcaps
Now Foods AHCC is a rich source of polysaccharides such as beta glucan 1,3 and activated hemicellulose produced by enzymatic modifications of organic medical mushrooms, including shiitake.
Black Elderberry Elixir, Premium Quality, Kosher, 8 fl. oz.
Since ancient times this juice extract has been used as a remedy for flu, colds, coughs and respiratory infections. The juice derived from the black elderberry is believed to contain many beneficial properties.
L-Lysine, Highest Potency, Pharmaceutical Grade, NOW Foods, 1000 mg, 100 Tabs
L-Lysine is one of the most well known amino acids and is an essential component of all proteins.
L-Lysine, Pharmaceutical Grade, stable Tartrate Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps
L-Lysine helps symptoms of herpes infection and cold sores and L-Lysine is an essential amino acid.
Pau D'Arco Extract, Incan LaPacho, 100% Natural Herbal, 4 fl. oz.
The Incan LaPacho Co. Pau D'Arco extract is made from the inner barks of Plantation Grown Purple LaPacho Trees found on or near the ancient Inca Trail.
Cat's Claw Bark, Nature's Way, 485 mg, 100 Caps
Cat's Claw supports a wide range of health problems associated with immune and digestive problems; such as gastric ulcers, arthritis, intestinal disorders, certain skin disorders, herpes, candidiasis, chronic fatigue, lupus, and tumors. It can also be used as an aid for stomach and bowel disorders including: Crohn's disease, leaky bowel, colitis, diverticulitis gastritis, ulcers, intestinal flora imbalance, and hemorrhoids.
Immune System Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
The Immune System Formula can be used for AIDS, Auto-immune Diseases, and Cancer.
Acne and Skin Disorders Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
This herbal remedy for acne and skin disorders contains herbs that are helpful for eczema and psoriasis as well.
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils A-B
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils C-E
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils F-L
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils M-P
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils Q-Z
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Oil Blends & Resins
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Diffusers, Nebulizers, & Burners
Mountain Rose Herbs, Aromatherapy Oils: Oil Kits
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
Any of the following occurs:
- You or a family member has symptoms of genital herpes.
- If you are pregnant, be sure to tell your midwife or health care provider if you have genital herpes. This is especially important as your due date approaches. If you have an active outbreak at the time of your labor, you may need to have a cesarean delivery to prevent spread of the disease to your baby.
- Symptoms do not improve in 1 week, despite treatment.
- Symptoms worsen, despite treatment.
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or swelling occurs.
- Fever returns during treatment or you become generally ill.
Additional information available from:
The Herpes Resource Center (HRC)
American Social Health Association
P.O. Box 13827
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
(919) 361-8488
NHIC: HRC Website Information
HRC Website
Viaderm.com: Non-prescription Medication for Herpes
Forces of Nature: Herpes Medication
MoonDragon's Health Information: Cold Sores
