Genital herpes spreads through sexual
contact and is known as HSV (herpes simplex), named after the virus that causes
this infection. It manifests itself in the form of sores and blisters around
the mouth and lips. HSV-2 is another variant that is more common in women than
in men. The virus may lie dormant and infected persons may never exhibit
symptoms except when first infected. Within two weeks of being infected a
person may have some fever, a feeling of general unease, decreased appetite,
lower body, muscle pain and swollen lymph nodes in the groin. The outbreaks
decrease over time but when they do show in the form of sores or ulcers they
can cause discomfort and pain.
Doctors will prescribe pain relievers but these can have side effects. You can
manage the symptoms with a few simple home remedies. If you have sores do not
ignore them. Simply wash them with mild soap and water and pat dry. Keep them
open and do not apply any ointment or lotion.
Change your lifestyle and wear loose fitting cotton clothes. Avoid synthetic
undergarments and tight pants. Food is another aspect you should address. Eat
healthy, nutritious food to keep your immune system in top gear. Eating herbs
such as ginger and garlic helps. Foods rich in iron, zinc, Vitamins C and B such
as carrots, figs, apples, mangoes, beetroot and papaya is recommended. At the
same time avoid sugar, alcohol, caffeine and tobacco. As far as possible avoid
going out in the sun or exposure to extremes of weather. Bathe in warm water
and keep the affected areas dry. Sweat can aggravate pain.
If there is excessive swelling causing more discomfort, apply ice packs over
the affected areas for quick relief. Applying fresh aloe vera juice also gives
you some relief.
Aloe is not the only herb that can bring relief in cases of genital herpes. You
can easily get sandalwood powder and make a paste with some turmeric powder.
Apply the paste over the sores and it cools. The bark of peepul and banyan tree
as well as the leaves are also beneficial in case of genital herpes. Make a
paste and apply over the sores or make an infusion and apply the lotion.
Licorine is another herb you can try with confidence. The leaves and stalks of
lotus are also beneficial. Ayurveda herbal specialists also recommend the use
of Guduchi and Nagarmotha to give relief in cases of genital herpes. Make an
infusion of all or any of these herbs and apply over the infected areas. You
can just as well make a paste and mix with oil. Talking of oils, coconut oil
and olive oil are excellent for herpes. Add some tea tree oil or jojoba oil and
you have an excellent mixture that gives you great relief in these conditions.
You have to learn to live with herpes since it cannot be cured so take care,
use the right mix of solutions given above and life will not be so bad after
all.
