What is genital herpes?
Genital herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is the leading cause of cold sores in the mouth and lips. It is transmitted through saliva, for example when kissing or sharing utensils and cutlery. HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes, although the main cause is HSV-2 (herpes simplex type 2).
How can a person get genital herpes?
Genital herpes is spread through sexual contact . Herpes virus infection type 1 and type 2 infection occurs through injured skin or mucous membranes, such as the inside of the mouth or in the genital area. The virus is found in large quantities in urine, as well as in body fluids such as saliva, semen and secretions from the female genital tract. Both types of virus can cause genital herpes, even if the infected person shows no symptoms and no visible lesions. The infection can be transmitted to the baby from the mother during birth, especially in the presence of blisters around the vagina. A person can be infected with the herpes virus but show no symptoms. Symptoms are often caused by sun exposure, fever, menstruation, emotional stress, a weakened immune system, or illness.
All sexually active people are at risk of getting genital herpes, and frequent changes of sexual partners increase the risk many times over. People with weakened immune systems , such as people with HIV / AIDS or those taking immunosuppressive drugs to treat autoimmune diseases or due to organ transplants, have an increased risk of herpes infection.
What are the symptoms of genital herpes?
Signs of genital herpes may include:
- burning sensation on the genitals and thighs,
- appearance of small red blisters or sores on the genitals and inner thighs
- swollen lymph nodes in the groin
- it may or may not be painful
- vaginal discharge in women
- elevated temperature
- muscle pain
- a headache
- painful urination
Those infected with genital herpes often experience discomfort. They should avoid any sexual contact, as well as kissing during the symptoms of the infection. Although genital herpes is considered an incurable disease, it can be controlled and somewhat controlled with some natural remedies.
Herbs and natural remedies useful for genital herpes are:
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is one of the most effective herbal remedies for herpes. It contains flavonoids, phenolic acids and rosemary acid, which prevent the genital herpes virus from replicating (multiplying) in the body. At the first signs of the virus, you can apply the balm cream to the places where you feel tingling, itching and pain. You can also use lemon balm tea to wash the affected areas or apply cotton swabs soaked in tea directly on them. You can prepare tea by adding 1 tablespoon of dried balm to a glass of water. Lemongrass is also available in the form of creams and ointments that are applied directly. Lemongrass is also available in the form of creams and ointments.
Lapacho
Lapacho (Tabebuia avellanedae) is a plant that has been used for years to treat cancer and viral infections. It is used in Brazil, Paraguay, northern Argentina and Bolivia. It has a strong immunostimulating effect and relieves the symptoms of herpes.
Aloe vera
The mechanism by which aloe helps heal skin wounds is not fully defined. However, studies show that it contains substances called polysaccharides, such as acemanan, which have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and immunostimulatory properties. Other components of aloe are amino acids, which also contribute to the growth and repair of body tissues.
At the first signs of genital herpes, you can apply aloe vera gel to the area. You can find aloe gel on the market or extract it directly by peeling an aloe leaf. Aloe can also be found as a cream, ointment or lotion. Aloe cream in a concentration of 0.5% can be applied three times a day.
Cat’s claw
Cat’s claw is a plant used to treat a number of diseases such as cancer, diabetes , ulcers, arthritis and viral infections, including herpes simplex and shingles.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a medicinal plant with antiviral and immunostimulatory properties. All parts of the plant (leaves, flowers and roots) can be used to treat herpes. It can be taken in the form of tea, juice or dietary supplement.
Propolis
Propolis is a bee product with exceptionally useful properties. It can be applied directly to the skin to alleviate the irritation caused by blisters, and also to suppress the virus itself.
Black tea
Black tea is very rich in tannins and has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Make black tea from a bag and leave to cool. Then apply the bag on the lesions for about 5 minutes. For better results, repeat the procedure two or three times a day.
Reishi
Reishi ( Ganoderma lucidum ) is a Chinese herbal mushroom known for its miraculous health benefits. It is non-toxic and can be taken daily without causing side effects. With regular intake, it restores the natural state of the body and helps it to function normally. It has a stimulating effect on the immune system and has antiviral properties. Another fungus popular for its healing properties in herpes is the glaze (gypsy mushroom).
Lysine
Lysine is an amino acid known for its ability to control and prevent herpes. It is recommended to take 1000 mg three times a day, even in the absence of symptoms. Eat foods rich in lysine, such as legumes, fish, turkey, chicken and leafy vegetables. Avoid chocolate, nuts and seeds, because they contain another amino acid – arginine, which interferes with the absorption and action of lysine and thus supports the virus.
Olive oil
Olive oil is known as a skin moisturizer. It is rich in antioxidants and is one of the recommended remedies for herpes ulcers. Take a glass of olive oil and heat it in a pot, add a little lavender oil and beeswax. Allow the mixture to cool and apply it on the affected areas.
Ice
The most affordable home remedy for herpes is ice. Ice relieves pain in herpes. Take some ice and break it. Fill a plastic bag with it and wrap it in a thick cloth. Put it on the lesions for 10-15 minutes to remove the pain and swelling of the tissues. However, prolonged exposure of the genitals to ice can damage tissues.
Soda
Soda quickly relieves itching and pain. Take a cotton swab, apply baking soda and apply directly to the infected area. This helps to dry the “tears” blisters. To avoid contamination, do not re-immerse cotton in baking soda.
You can also add baking soda to a warm bath, which will relieve pain and itching.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil can be applied with a dropper directly on the infected areas.
Manuka med
Manuka honey is produced by bees in New Zealand, which pollinate local manuka bushes. It has long been used to treat many conditions due to its natural antibacterial and antiviral properties. Helps in rapid healing of blisters and lesions in genital herpes. Apply with a cotton swab directly to the affected areas.
Homeopathic remedies
In severe forms of genital herpes, home remedies may not be effective. In such cases, you can resort to homeopathic treatment. Among the recommended homeopathic remedies for herpes are:
Creosotum – is intended for genital herpes in women, accompanied by a burning sensation in the vagina.
Hepar sulfur – is useful for treating suppuration in the inguinal area.
Lachesis mutus – used when the manifestation of genital herpes is caused by menstruation.
Apis melifika – used for genital herpes in men, accompanied by swelling of the scrotum.
Ranunculus bulbosus – used for neurological problems caused by herpes.
Croton tiglium – helps treat genital herpes in men.
Aconitum napelus – suitable for the initial stage of genital herpes, when you feel tingling and tingling in the infected area.
Thuja occidentalis – is known for its strong action against genital herpes, warts and sexually transmitted diseases.
What else can help with genital herpes?
Diet
- Use foods rich in vitamins B and C, zinc, iron, minerals and lysine to strengthen the immune system. Vitamin C and zinc are needed by the body to build a healthy immune system that prevents the appearance of herpes. 1000 mg of vitamin C and 50 mg of zinc per day help keep the virus dormant.
- Eat fruits and vegetables daily, such as papaya, carrots, figs, apricots, cabbage, apples, mangoes, beets and more.
- Avoid foods rich in refined sugar, alcohol and smoking.
Stress relief
Stress is one of the main causes of genital herpes outbreaks, so try to avoid stressful situations and tension. Some teas like chamomile, anise, ginger help you relax.
