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Effective Natural Treatments for Genital Herpes Relief

| Modified on Oct 23, 2024
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Genital herpes, a prevalent sexually transmitted disease (STD), affects millions globally. This condition, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), significantly impacts both men and women. In the United States alone, approximately one in six individuals carries the virus. Although thought to be incurable, numerous natural remedies and supplements, as reported by Earth Clinic readers, can effectively alleviate symptoms and reduce outbreak frequency.

What Exactly Is Genital Herpes?

This viral infection, primarily transmitted through sexual contact, results from two types of the herpes simplex virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2. While HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, HSV-2 is the more typical culprit. Symptoms of genital herpes include painful blisters or sores around the genitals, anus, and thighs. Additional symptoms might encompass fever, headaches, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Although antiviral medications offer relief by lessening the severity and frequency of outbreaks, numerous natural treatments also hold promise in managing this condition.

Natural Remedies for Genital Herpes

Individuals seeking alternative treatments for genital herpes symptoms and outbreak management have turned to a variety of natural remedies. Earth Clinic readers, in particular, have highlighted several effective options. Below are six popular natural treatments, each with its unique benefits.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Widely recognized for its health benefits, apple cider vinegar is believed to reduce the severity and duration of herpes outbreaks due to its acidic properties.

  • Application: Mix apple cider vinegar with an equal part of water. Apply this diluted solution to the affected area with a cotton ball. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse. Repeat several times daily as needed.

Coconut Oil

Renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, coconut oil is suggested to soothe the skin and potentially decrease the severity and duration of herpes outbreaks.

  • Application: Gently rub a small amount of organic, extra-virgin coconut oil on the affected area. Leave for 30 minutes, then rinse. Apply several times daily as necessary.

L-Lysine

L-Lysine, an essential amino acid found in foods like meats and dairy, is often discussed in the context of genital herpes treatment. A comprehensive review of the evidence on L-Lysine's effectiveness in preventing herpes simplex virus (HSV) recurrences reveals nuanced findings:

  • Effectiveness: According to the review, L-Lysine supplementation at doses below 1 gram per day, without accompanying low-arginine diets, seems ineffective for preventing or treating herpes simplex lesions. However, higher doses, specifically over 3 grams per day, may enhance patients' subjective disease experience, suggesting a potential benefit in higher dosages.
  • Research Gaps: The study concludes that more prolonged, controlled research is needed, particularly with daily doses exceeding 1.2 grams, to establish L-Lysine's role in herpes simplex prophylaxis.
  • Safety Concerns: It's important to note that individuals with cardiovascular or gallbladder diseases should approach L-Lysine supplementation with caution due to potential risks

Hydrogen Peroxide

Known for its antiseptic properties, hydrogen peroxide may help prevent secondary bacterial infections in herpes-affected areas.

  • Application: Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide with water. Apply to the affected area using a cotton ball, leave for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off. Repeat several times daily as needed.

Bach Flower Remedies

These natural remedies are used to address various emotional and physical conditions. For those coping with the emotional stress of genital herpes outbreaks, Bach flower remedies like Walnut and Holly are often recommended, though individual suitability varies.

Prunella Vulgaris

This herb is suggested to inhibit herpes simplex virus replication, offering potential relief.

  • Application: To use Prunella vulgaris for genital herpes, apply a topical ointment containing Prunella vulgaris to the affected area several times a day. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera, known for its antiviral activity, can be effective in treating genital herpes. The anthraquinones in Aloe Vera have shown anti-viral activity. One study highlighted that Aloe Vera effectively stopped outbreaks for most participants experiencing their first genital herpes outbreak. Aloe Vera cream showed a 70% success rate and was the fastest in healing, while Aloe Vera Gel had a 45% success rate and took slightly longer to heal. Pure Aloe Vera gel can be applied directly to the body without dilution.

  • Application: Apply pure Aloe Vera gel directly to the affected area as needed​​.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil is a popular natural remedy for various skin conditions, including genital herpes, due to its antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal properties. It's important to note that Tea Tree Oil should never be ingested and is toxic to cats. Conducting a patch test before use is recommended to check for skin sensitivity, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it.

  • Application: Dilute Tea Tree Oil in a carrier oil (like olive or almond oil) and apply it to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily, ensuring hands are washed before and after application to prevent further irritation and spread of infection

Echinacea

Echinacea, an herbal supplement, may offer benefits for those with genital herpes. A patient case reported in the British Journal of Phytotherapy in 1990 described a male with a twelve-year history of genital herpes who experienced positive results with Echinacea. After using powdered Echinacea purpurea in capsules, the patient reported that the infection cleared faster than usual, was less severe, and recurrences were significantly delayed, if not entirely prevented, upon early treatment.1

Usage: Powdered Echinacea purpurea in capsules, as per the dosage listed on the bottle, taken at the onset of prodromal symptoms

Zinc

Topical zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) has been studied for its efficacy in treating genital herpes. A study involving 90 patients with herpes genitalis found that topical application of zinc sulfate in varying concentrations (1%, 2%, and 4%) over three months effectively reduced recurrence rates. Specifically, 4% zinc sulfate was the most efficacious concentration, showing only one recurrence out of 30 patients and no serious side effects.

  • Application: Apply topical zinc sulfate at a concentration of 4% to the affected area, as this concentration was found to be most effective in reducing recurrences and symptoms of herpes genitalis.

Conclusion

In summary, while genital herpes remains a challenging condition, the exploration of natural remedies offers hope and relief. From the antiviral properties of Aloe Vera to the soothing effects of Tea Tree Oil and the preventative potential of Echinacea and Zinc, these alternatives provide diverse options for managing symptoms and reducing outbreak frequency.

Continue reading below for feedback from Earth Clinic readers to learn which remedies worked the best for this condition.

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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Acetone Nail Polish Remover

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Posted by Sunshine (Montreal) on 11/02/2018
 ★★★★★

Just finished a 5 day treatment with acetone and must say I really am impressed. It was really comfortable for the whole 5 days and now there are no symptoms.

First I used a baby wipe to clean the whole area and then applied the acetone on a folded tissue and by tapping 'tap tap tap' over the blisters till it became more tolerable (burned like crap at first) and then pressed the tissue hard over the blisters for a couple minutes or till I felt no more pain.

I did nothing more. Usually the ordeal lasts for a good three weeks.. FIVE DAYS is all it took! Thank you so much for this trick! XOXOXO

Acetone Nail Polish Remover
Posted by Nina (Owen Sound, Ontario, Canada) on 10/10/2008
 ★★★★★

Just had an GH outbreak after going 9 years without one! It was a small cluster on the outside labia (not on the mucous membrane) I was devastated and didnt want to have to go through weeks of pain. I was willing to try anything, and i did! I tried the acetone remover trick and IT WORKED. I pressed a q tip to the small cluster of sores that had not broken open yet, about 10 times yesterday and kept the area VERY DRY with cornstarch all day and night. Today, they are healing over and almost gone! they didnt break open, they didnt scab over, they didnt get any bigger...they are healing and almost gone. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

Replied by Hope4cure
(Cornfield, Ia)
11/16/2010
★★★★☆

I was recently diagnosed with HSV-1 dont have cold sores but get cankersores.... Then after a stressful week I get a sore bump on my vaginal lip I tried popping it and it becomes a blood blister.... I make an appt to get std testing. On the 4th of november I get in and do a urine and blood test on the 10th if nov. I get a call saying that everything is fine and I have hsv-1... Cold sore type they never informed me that it would cause genital sores too! I was freaking out of course like I always do. The next day little blisters apeared around my red bump that I had been freaking out about. So to my horror I know I now have genital herpes :( so after reading eveything I could possibly read! I try the Apple Cider Vinegar and stings but helped alot then I decided to try the acetone nail polish remover... This I do believe is working the best but I have been alternating applications and it is crusting nicely. I hope this is my first initial outbreak of the hsv-1 and not a misdiagnosis of hsv2... Id rather have just the type 1 cuz it recurs less often...

So now by sunday I get another white itchy bump close to the area I was previously treating. I apply Apple Cider Vinegar and acetone to it several times a day... I am also taking alot of l-lysine up to 3000mg a day and lecithin 2800mg a day since I believe the post of the lecithin guy freddy.... I believe there is a cure! I am also waiting for my stabilized oxygen drops to come in the mail in a few days I will be taking these as I have read that virus' cant live in oxygen rich environment.... I also run (but was in a hiatus) and I am changing my diet to contain herpes friendly foods. I do not want this evil crap in me..... I long for a lasting relationship and this is not going to help me one bit im afraid. Sorry this is so long but the more detail is better I think... I will surely report back with my research as I am going to be a guinea pig for everyone! This sucks and I want it to end! I dont want to become rich I just want to fall in love..... Thank you for reading.

Vince
(Oklahoma)
01/20/2022

Please let me know how your treatment plan went. Thank you.

Replied by Hope4cure
(Cornfield, Ia)
12/12/2010

It has been a month since my first breakout. And I am all symptom free. My regimine.... Stabilized oxygen drops in water 30 drops 3xday in 16 oz of water (u need to work ur way up to this) also take 3-4 l-lysine pills a day 1000grams... Lecithin softgels 8 400 mg a day and a zinc pill in the am. This is what I have been doing by mouth.

I have also experimented with different foods... Which dont effect me. I dont eat artificial sweetners cuz they are bad news no matter what I try to eat healthy tho but damnit if I want a cookie im going to have one or the whole box!!!!! :) I go to the gym and lift wts and do cardio 3-4 times a wk.... If and when I had any sores I applied Apple Cider Vinegar the first few days... Stings like hell. Then id apply hydrogen peroxide a few times a day and or acetone polish remover..... This is what helped me.

My second breakout was taking forever to heal... 2wks so I read some info on garlic oil homemade stuff didnt want to make it so I had some odorless garlic pills poked the gel capsel and squeezed the med on a qtip and rubbed it on the sore... Didnt sting at all. This made the sore disapear in a day or 2 of once daily application!!!! Was so excited I would have done a back flip if I could :) so 1 wk has gone by and I dont have any sores! Nothing has come back yet! I will post back with a follow up. Im going to continue my pill regimine cus I believe this is the most important part! Be positive people :) we can beat this.

Replied by Rhio
(Enola, Pa)
02/27/2013

Do you have an update on this?

Acetone Nail Polish Remover, L-Lysine

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Posted by PJ (Gold Coast, Queensland Australia) on 12/10/2008
 ★★★★★

Hi,, I only found your site last week, and was very very interested to read what others suffering with H2,had found to be beneficial, then as luck or not would have it, i had an OB, stress driven i think, i take a valtrex daily, multi-vite, and try to eat healthy, etc ,, normally my OB'S take up to 4-8 days to fade and go away , but i feel dirty and out of sorts, it is really a strange feeling, anyway i tried the acetone nail polish remover,, dabbed it onto the dam thing,3-4 times a day ,, bought a bottle of lysine, threw back about 3 grams a day, and doubled my valtrex for 3 days, and ill tell you, it started to fade the next day , smoothed out, and started to shrink, i can only really put it down to the acetone nail polish remover, didnt sting, but tingled a bit,, who ever thought that up,, give them a medal, you need the preventative stuff for sure, but when OB happen, use the nail polish remover,, dam good stuff

EC: OB = Outbreak
H2 = HSV-2 or Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2

Replied by Brokenme26
(Saudi Arabia)
01/26/2015

Nail polish remover really helps? I'm afraid to put it.

ACV and Zovirax

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Posted by Suckered (Las Vegas, Nv) on 07/07/2011

This will be long because I scoured the net looking for all details. I want to help people figure out what they have and what helped me. I had unprotected sex on 6/18. Felt sick right away but thought I was just hung over. After spending a day at the beach on 6/21 I felt like I had sever sun exhaustion. For the next 3 days I had a bad fever off and on. I noticed what I thought was a canker sore inside my lower lip. By Friday I started to suspect I had herpes and was noticing evidence of one or two sores on my genitals (Im female).

After searching online I was sure but it was now a Saturday. I called different clinics but had to wait weeks to get in. By Monday I was in the midst of a full outbreak! Sores all over my labia and anus and mouth. I was very, very distressed and even at moments sucidal.

On Saturday I started to try EVERY thing I could find online. L-Lysine, Abreve with Tylenol pm (this worked for easing pain) baking soda, peroxide, aloe, Bachs flower essences, garlic cloves, garlic oil, tea tree oil, and carmex. I also tried baths with epsom salts and peroxide. None of these remedies had any visible results. Carmex was very useful for when I had to do physical activities. It eased the pain and protected the area. When I finally saw a doctor, 7 days after exposure, I was perscribed generic Zovirax (Acyclovir). It was only $11. I also started soaking cotton in ACV and keeping it on the sores for as long as I could. Sometimes a few hours.

Within 2 or 3 days I finally saw good results. I also took a multivitamin, vitamin D and Lysine to boost my immune system and quit drinking coffee and nuts. For inside my mouth I used listerine mixed with peroxide a few times a day and rinsed with salt water too. It is now 7/6 and I have one sore left on my genitals and my mouth is almost all healed. I got the results of my blood test and found out that I tested negative for HSV2 and positive for HSV1 even though my outbreak was mostly (and severely) on my genitals. This, I think, was due to oral sex. My partner was not aware that he had herpes. He had no visible sores. He was not honest about how many unprotected sex partners he had but he was very understanding and supportive when I told him that he gave me herpes. This was a hard lesson for me to learn not to trust people so freely with my body. I got through it by reading the supportive and loving messages on here. The first really is the worst but soon it will be over and behind you! Be strong.

Replied by Jul
(Redding, Ca)
07/30/2014

Believe me honey...it's not over! I was infected with genital herpes by my husband 31 yrs ago and I still have frequent obs...like two a month. Tried everything...still searching!

Replied by Bambi
(Canada)
07/31/2014

Just wondering. You say you've had it for 31 years and tried all of these methods using hydrogen peroxide and apple cider vinegar and it never worked for you?

Replied by Alex
(Australia)
07/16/2015

That's right...Tried everything. The best thing is ACV. but don't OD on it. Mix it with Honey 4 times a day during OB's and daily when not. Lysine will make the skin tougher but you need to be consistent with it. Daily. Stay off the nuts... No nuts...Or OB's every month for sure.

Replied by Ucantcy
(Newark, De)
10/21/2015

I have HSV1 with occasional genital symptoms, rectum and left butt check. Initially, I would get swollen glands, low-grade headaches and such. I only take Valtrex when I feel an oncoming out break to prolong it's effectiveness. I also begin dosing with Zicam, which has proven to be very effective. I use a small amount of Desitin around my anus, which has been very effective, too.

I appear to be seven years younger than I am and have been exploring enemas as a way of staying clean, and the other benefits of enemas ( sustained youthful appearance, listed among them). One of the popular types of enema is ACV (Apple Cider Vinegar).

I bought pharmaceutical grade zinc some time ago and I'm wondering if there might be a benefit to mixing the ACV enema with the zinc powder in an effort to eliminate symptoms (the theory being that the zinc would be absorbed into the blood stream through the walls of the rectum). One has to be careful not to over do it with minerals.

Has anyone tried this combination? Any thoughts?

Replied by Suzanne
(Spartanburg Sc)
02/23/2017

I've had genital herpes for 3 years. It's no big deal AT ALL. I've never given it to any of my partners and I've had several great boyfriends since. No one really cares. It's not some nightmare and it's not a life ender. People make it out to seem like that and it's a bunch of BS. 1 out of 5 people have herpes and of those that have it 90% don't even know. Even this page makes it seem like a big deal. Be safe, use protection, always tell your partner before you have sex, and take an anti-viral when you need to. I have one or two minor outbreaks per year. Don't let people scare you.

Replied by Kat
(Austin, Tx)
04/02/2017

I agree about Genital Herpes not being as bad as most people make it out to be. I got it from my boyfriend in 2012. I had a very bad outbreak (that's how I knew I had it) & luckily had good insurance, although, besides diagnosing me and putting me on Valtrex, there wasn't much they could do.

Since 2012 I have had maybe 1 or 2 pimples/bumps (I wouldn't even call them sores) & I believe this low outbreak is due to me keeping my immune system up. I've tried Lysine & I guess it helps but really, it's about making sure you stay as healthy as possible. I take Tumeric, Vit. D, Omega 3's, Gingko Bibloa, 5 - HTP, & other various herbs that deal with stress and anxiety (valerian, passionflower etc.) I don't always take ALL of these but I intermittently use them. I also have started using Apple Cider Vinegar (Organic) occasionally. I eat organically whenever possible & quit smoking last year. I do occasionally drink alcohol but I have had to cut that back since it lowers my immunity. I try really hard to get into bed by no later than 11 pm & try to sleep at least 8 hours. I could/should start exercising again but MOSTLY for me? It's stress. If I keep my stress levels down? Then I'm good. I also have tried some meditation - nothing that takes more than 10 minutes but it helps. It takes time and persistence and it does NOT happen over night but I have not given it to my last 5 boyfriends (the virus) & I have not had a bump/pimple in about 2 years. Good luck & please do not see this as a dooms day thing. :-)

ACV and Zovirax
Posted by Darcy (Phuket, Thailand) on 09/13/2008
 ★★★★★

I had been looking for remedies and cures for my GH (I had it just 2 months ago) here in Earthclinic and it has been a great help! I also want to share my experimentation which had shorten the time of the outbreak. every morning and before I go to sleep, I soak a cottonball with Apple Cider Vinegar and put/pat it on my sores for 3-5seconds (it can be very stingy, I almost cried the first time i did it), then washed it with a feminine wash with tea tree oil, then I dry it up using a hairdryer (or sometimes just with a towel) then apply Zovirax on the sores. You can feel and see the results just the next day! This is all possible because of the prayers I made, for asking all the medicines I use will be effective for curing my disease.

I hope this will help anyone who will try this suggestion of mine.
God bless!

ACV, Flower Remedies, Diet, Tea Tree Soap

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Posted by Anon (London, UK) on 06/18/2008
 ★★★★★

I caught the dreaded GH a few years ago actually from oral sex, not even a shag for the pleasure! Anyway, symptoms came regularly, each month with the usual burning sensation up my thighs, small red sores on the penis, etc - hassle is an understatement! I was 32 at the time, and it def slows you down in your tracks! Tried the usual remedies, Apple Cyder Vinegar, Bachs remedies as recommended on this site, diet change etc. I'm generally pretty fit and eat well, but to be safe I totally cut out anything with artificial sweeteners and stopped eating bananas / peanuts. By following the Organic Apple Cyder Vinegar route and the Bach route for months on end, the results were not really obvious - did lose a bit of weight though - probably the ACV and the cutting out of artificially sweetened food - also cut out booze almost completely to test the alcohol theory. All of the above may have helped slightly but it's hard to say. One thing I did notice about ACV was if you apply it directly to the sore areas with a cotton ball, or tissue - it would bring out the blisters/sores very quickly - almost instantly - maybe speeding up the clearing cycle, but once again it's hard to say if it helped. I'd also generally drink ACV twice a day, morning and evening (a lidfull in a glass of water) it's pretty good for you anyway so no harm giving it a bash.

I have not tried any doctor prescribed medicine at all - in fact on both tests at the STI clinic I came up negative for G-Herpes, amusing really, I didn't have a blood test but it shows the swab tests are scarily poor! There is no question though, it is def Genital Herpes I have.
I researched the web everywhere for help and found this site to have the most sensible suggestions and promised myself that I'd comment on here in the future. My symptoms were not as bad as the pictures you see on the web, but we're more than enough to put me off sex for a while, general inflammation of the skin near the head of the penis (redder than it should be), slightly itchy tingles like you have a pubic hair caught in your foreskin, tiny blisters which seeped a little for the first few months, these died down a bit to a less obvious soreness, but still obvious to me! As time goes by the symptoms seem to naturally slow down and come out less aggressively which makes sense - but they still appeared each month or even every few weeks. Just as I thought probably gone this time - there the usual redness/tiny sores would pop up again.

I tried using non-scented soaps - the usual high street suspects, I'd wash my penis each morning and night, but you get a bit worried about aggravating the already seemingly angry Virus so I was always cautious what I washed with! I found the Bach remedies to be a bit of a hassle, you'd end up going to the bathroom at work, putting a few drops on the areas which were aggravated, then standing there with your penis out waiting for it to dry, the Bach remedy also left you a little sticky as it is sweet, but none the less worth a try!

Anyway, cutting a long story short I was in Waitrose (English Supermarket) about 9 months back and picked up a bar of soap as part of my continuous attempt to find something that helps. The soap was made by Tisserand and is called Tisserand Organic Tea-Tree Soap. It comes in a cardboard packet and is a 100g bar of green soap. This soap which says it has "naturally antiseptic properties" seems to have worked at cutting down my symptoms, in fact it's almost eradicated them. Costs about %3 a bar. I wash my penis in the morning and evening with the soap, just lather the soap up in my hands and then wash myself with it, I also use it for the rest of my body as it's really nice soap anyway. I've not had an outbreak for ages, and the soap seemed cut outbreaks almost as soon as I started using it. It is possible that the timing of when I bought the soap coincided with my bodies natural defense to overcome the continuous virus outbreaks, (I started using it about 20 months into contracting GH - but I was still getting outbreaks roughly every 4-6 weeks at the time) but I would say it's more likely the soap does have something in it that helps massively. I can pretty much eat anything now and can go out on a drinking bender without worrying too much about the consequences.

In summary, get your body back on a healthy diet/lifestyle. Try and get good sleep hours to save you from being run down, don't go out drinking too much. If your system is run down then the virus is stronger. Cut out artificial sweeteners altogether, I didn't notice any obvious worsening as a result of consuming them, but everyone else seems to suffer so I just eliminated them from my diet - if you need sweets then eat things with natural sugars - honey sandwiches for example. Definitely try this soap Tisserand, make sure it's the bar of soap I've mentioned above as I think they do quite a few ranges in liquid form etc - I'm sure it's what helped me. I completely stopped Bachs remedies as soon as I started using the soap -they're really a bit of a hassle and people always ask you what they're for. I still drink the ACV every few days or so just because it's quite good for you, I also drink a lot of green tea as it's an excellent anti-oxidant.

It may be the amount of time I've had it, but at 20 months in I was convinced the GH was going to keep recurring regularly and was finding it was really controlling my life, I planned everything around it. Now 29 months in it's no longer really a hassle for me at all and hasn't been for the last 9 months since I first started using the soap. So my conclusion is it's either time or the soap that's done the most for me - so if it's time then there's light at the end of the tunnel for most of us, and if it's the soap then I'd recommend you at least try it - I'm not going to stop using it (ever!) - so Good luck Team H, my thoughts are with you!!!! Two other things; I also cut my pubic hair pretty short as I found it would get caught in my foreskin on occasion and cause unnecessary itching - guess that's a guy thing! And also I only wear loose cotton underwear, generally Ralph Lauren as I'm pretty cool like that ;-) Good Luck!

Replied by Shesawaterfall
(Southampton, Uk)
03/16/2012

Mr Waitrose Soap man, I can't tell how happy I am to read your message. Not so much about the soap as I'm in the middle east currently and waitrose's upper class clientele isn't to be found here! But just generally your experience gives me hope. I'm coming up for my 2 year anniversary of getting this wonderful virus, and in the last 6 months my outbreaks have increased to about 1 a month- it's getting ridiculous and to the point where it's all I think about! Plus, I've been off the booze (due to the country I'm in) for 6 months, yet that has made it worse. My diet is pretty good although I do eat a lot of peanuts so I just hope if I continue to keep a decent diet it will get easier. OF course when I get back to blighty I'll try this special soap and some apple cyder vinegar for shits and giggles as well.

Sharon R
(USA)
11/11/2020

Please stay off the nuts (Arginine) They increase outbreaks. Certain foods can increase outbreaks, that being said, nuts are a big no no.

Raphael
(TX)
08/03/2022

Yeah, I forgot peanuts can frequent GH, so I eat a big bag of salted roasted peanuts, it gave me 2 flare ups. This site's revisit reminds me of nuts are no no.

Replied by C
(Detroit Metro, Mi)
04/28/2012

Hey Shesawaterfall, Lay off the peanuts man. Peanuts contain lots of arginine. The herpes simplex virus requires the amino acid arginine to metabolize and multiply.

Replied by Earth Angel
(Usa)
01/18/2017

No nuts. They are high in arginine, which activates the virus.

Aloe Vera

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Posted by Sammie (B'dos) on 09/13/2014
 ★★★★☆

20+ years in: Fresh Aloe gel from the plant works well to IMMEDIATELY bring relief to irritated sores. First clean area with hydrogen Peroxide, then apply Aloe (you can actually sleep in peace)1000 mg Vit C , Zinc supplements daily has reduced frequency of outbreaks for me to about twice a year and outbreaks are about 2-3sores. Use No peanuts. My outbreaks tend to come around menstrual period time(body stress) so I make sure during ovulation and period time to be taking my Vit C and Zinc. Initial onset warning sign is pain to the back of my leg and I take a pain killer and up my Vit C dose to 2twice a day(No sores appear). I had always promised myself to post here if I found a routine that worked for me because I have found so much useful info here. Oh... Eating more natural foods has helped too...I try really hard to stay away from the snacks and packaged food/fast food(simply because there are too many created substances whose effects on my body I can't account for) but I do indulge occasionally and have alcohol as well.

Replied by Nicholas
(Playa Del Carmen, Mexico)
01/16/2015

Well the peanuts thing is indifferent to me because is free in most restuarants, beer almost all enjoy a cold beer especially in hot climate. I live in Mexico Southern. Tea Tree Oil soap or oil is excellent helper, Apple Cider Vinegar, there are no health food stores here. I use apple vinegar, topical apply, drink cool. Comments - I am not in a case with big break outs or something. I have a couple sores that may not even be herpes. I like the study of medicine and yes - cut out cigarettes, coffee. I agree, don't do either. Use a natural cure, not pills. I am a dentist and mouth herpes I haven't seen at all; very rare here anywhere. Well amigos Nicholas from Colorado, USA out here in Mexico working along.

Aloe Vera
Posted by Jimi50 (Surabaya, Indonesia) on 08/18/2009
 ★★★★★

I have had GH for many years,but usually an outbreak only 2 or 3 times a decade. Upon moving to Indonesia, my outbreaks increased to 5 or 6 a year. After racking my little brain, the only thing I do different here is use SOY OIL for cooking.

Any imput or ideas,from anyone?

I have found that fresh Aloe Vera, both orally and topigraphicaly, seem to have an immediate effect, healing sores, burning, and the funky overall feeling.

I will change my cooking oil,but again, any ideas would be welcome.

Thanks and good luck to ALL.!
Jimi50

Replied by Artisan
(New Paltz, Ny, Usa)
08/18/2010
★★★★★

I have found aloe vera gel to be very effective at healing sores usually overnight or in a day or two - apply several times a day if possible. L-Lysine as a pill also helps me as does L-lysine cream applied topically. Lemon balm cream also helps. Lemon balm TEA helps oral sores. Lemon balm is a known herpicide, tho I don't see it on this site.

Replied by C
(Detroit Metro, Mi)
04/28/2012

Jimi50, Cease with the soy oil. No good. Better to use coconut oil, it has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties among many other desirable properties. Much information on it here on this site. More better!

Replied by Bcnu147
(Anacortes, Wa, U. S. A.)
04/03/2013

It is my understanding that in Indonesia, peanut oil is used in cooking some things.

NOTE: the quote from earlier on the page, above your post.

"Lay off the peanuts man. Peanuts contain lots of arginine. The herpes simplex virus requires the amino acid arginine to metabolize and multiply."

Asian foods are often cooked in peanut oil.

Replied by Alexandra
(United States)
08/03/2014

Soy is almost always GMO. GMOs (genetically modified organisms) are toxic and will only make it worse.

Replied by Raphael
(TX)
08/03/2022

Peanut sauce for satay .... peanut is nuts that is a no no for herpes flare up.

Andrographic Paniculate and Olive Leaf, ACV

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Posted by Kathy (Boston, MA)
★★★★★

Andrographis paniculata and Olive leaf with Apple Cider Vinegar... Maybe it can totally kill the virus. AP, usually cannot take beyond ten days, 4x/day, but a 2 week break then resume. Check with health person before trying this.

Ani's Lotion

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Posted by Ani (%u0130stanbul, Turkey ) on 05/20/2021 8 posts
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Relief from repeated GH flare-ups

I came up with this new recipe for a soothing lotion after reading various sources, especially cures reported by Earth Clinic contributors.

I was spurred into action when a third outbreak started in less than 6 weeks. Relief was almost immediate, and much better by morning after a bedtime application. By the second morning there was minor swelling but no stinging or burning at all. I waited a few weeks before sharing my good news, because I wanted to be sure of the effect. At the time of writing, I've been symptom-free for 45 days. I hope this suggestion can help ease the suffering of anyone able to give it a try.

CAUTION: Licorice can cause issues such as heart palpitations for some people, so please check with the doctor or pharmacist if you have a chronic health problem or are taking prescription medication

The lotion I made was thin enough to store in a squeezable or pump dispenser bottle but I found it most convenient to use a wide necked container, using a clean plastic spoon or narrow wooden spatula to scoop some out each time. Before use, bathe the affected area with baby shampoo or warm salt water, rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a paper towel. Wash your hands before and after applying the lotion. All homemade creams and lotions are best stored in the refrigerator, and you'll benefit from the cooling effect with this one especially.

The recipe produces a decent amount so if you get fast initial results, you can continue to use it at least twice a day morning and evening until it's finished to stave off further outbreaks. I recommend using a panty liner to protect against stains.

Recipe as follows:

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Distilled Water
  • 1 teaspoon Liquid Sunflower Lecithin
  • 2 capsules Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
  • 1 teaspoon Licorice Root Powder*
  • 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil
  • 5 drops Garlic oil**
  • 5 drops Oregano oil
  • Optional: a pinch of food grade Borax

Equipment

(make sure everything is thoroughly clean/sterilised)

  • 2 small pans or heatproof bowls
  • Spatula or small balloon whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Strainer, fine mesh
  • Suitable storage container
  • Funnel, if needed to transfer to container

Method:

Gently heat the coconut oil, add the licorice root powder and allow to infuse for at least an hour, preferably longer. You should see the oil darkening in colour from the licorice root. In a separate container, heat the distilled water, remove from heat and add the Lecithin, stirring until dissolved. Add the contents of the B3 capsules and Borax. Stir until thoroughly combined. Strain the coconut oil into the container with the water based mix, then add the garlic and oregano oils and blend by whisking vigorously until a creamy lotion is produced. Cover and store in the refrigerator. Optionally adding Borax helps to act as a preservative, so it should be possible to store in a cool dark place for up to 4 days, should you need to travel etc.

WARNING: If you share your refrigerator with others, please be super careful with labeling, storage etc - this lotion looks a lot like a creamy pudding!

You can substitute Lavender or Rose water for Distilled water.

*Half a teaspoon of Licorice Root Extract can replace 1 teaspoon Licorice Root Powder, just add it to the water along with the B3 and Borax.

Lecithin granules might work, I've not used them, but they would need to be dissolved completely. Soy is contra-indicated as a potential precursor in many comments I've read about Herpes, so Sunflower Lecithin is definitely preferable.

** I add any leftover cloves of peeled garlic to use later to a jar, cover with extra virgin oilve oil and store in the fridge. The oil makes a wonderful healing salve for minor cuts or burns. If you can't find garlic oil, try my method but use a teaspoonful.

Anti-Fungal Cream

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Posted by R. Howard (Lihue, Hi) on 09/05/2010
 ★★★★★

I have used a anti-fungal cream from my doctor for years for genital herpes. It's highly effective and usually clears up the sores in less than a week. I also use topical 3% H202 solution applied with a cotton ball. Though they say herpes is a virus, the anti-fungal cream works best for me instead of drugs. RH

Antiviral Cleanse

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Posted by Think2 (Northeast, Md, USA) on 09/09/2012
 ★★★★★

I used [an] antiviral cleanse from within a month of the first outbreak 05/2012 initial hsv1. It does require an all raw diet -and a lots of distilled or alkaline water for 21 days. The herbs did not make me sick. I needed to probably do this cleanse and although I was hoping my nightmare would've ended immediately... It didn't BUT I realize that it might have helped me with not getting new outbreaks. I think it has helped alot. I don't have lesions that I can see, everything is inside I guess. (I had one bad 4 day period a month ago that I was completely not feeling well all over.)

I have been trying herbal treatments over pharmaceuticals because I'm still wanting to knock this out of my system for good. I still have hope that my life will be normal again one day. No external sores just bouts of what feels like vaginitis/or b. v. feeling. When I get that I put coconut oil on external area. I tried to take oil of oregano but it made me gag so I wasn't really going to keep that up. I'm going to try again on that I'm just afraid that its killing the good bacteria too. (need to research more). I eat alot of yogurt. I take an extract of astragulus(sp), echinacea, and goldenseal root. I also read about immunity building herbals like moringa leaf (vitamin c rich) and pau d'arco.

Also, one more thing - I have read that immune system is tied up with the colon so it makes sense to try to keep the colon clean as much as possible - I've eliminated beef (never eat pork) eat more fish, minimal chicken/turkey. I try to cook everything with fresh garlic gloves and I made my own apple cider vinegar /extra virgin olive oil/fresh garlic & spices salad dressing.

I think somewhere on here someone asked the question about addressing the nerve activity that seems to be how the virus lies dormant in the nerves. Anyone know anything about nervine herbs like st. Johns wort or anything? That seems to me to be the key to killing it. Are we able to block the replication with nervines?

I love this place earthclinic - finally I feel like I'm not alone... :|

Replied by Jay
(Toronto, Ont, Canada)
09/09/2012

To Think2 from Northeast, Md, USA -- Pick up the little book titled "Olive Leaf Extract" by Dr. Morton Walker. Pages 100 to 103 discuss the 7 known herpes virus strains and page 103 discusses the work of a couple of doctors using extracts from olive leaf with significant treatment success.

Replied by Jay
(Bombay, India)
10/30/2012

I, am suffering from genital herpes for over 4 years.. I m on valtrex 500mg.. I had outbreaks every week... I tried using all sorts of homeo meds and ayurvedic medicines as well but to no avail.... Then I came accross a miraculous remedy... Its 'wheat grass juice' therapy... I m on it for three weeks now and do not have outbreak since... I have 60 ml of it on empty stomach every morning... I also have 'chyawanprash'an ayurvedic herbal remedy with high content of 'aamla'... I would like to let millions of people across world know about wheatgrass juice and chyawanprash to get relief from genital herpes...God bless all

Replied by Pearl
(Houston, Tx)
01/31/2013

@Think2 with the info that you gave, im assuming you did the cleanse through djheuty.. If so could you give any feedback about tests you may have done afterwards.. im really into healing my body and erradicating over simply minimizing symptoms.

Thanx in advance!

Replied by Think2
(Md)
06/11/2014
★★★★☆

Its been quite awhile; I should've checked back over this past 2 years I didn't even think my comment posted ...

Update: The igG tests will probably continue to show positive as they are very sensitive to the specific antibodies related to HSVs. Initially, both were negative; only a culture was positive. When I wrote in 2012, I was first diagnosed. I've not had any outbreaks, no yeast infections, and no bacterial infections. I am a woman so I cannot tell if anything is on the inside (should it hurt or burn? I don't know, I've not had this happen to me) So far, I don't see anything out of the ordinary. I have had some sporadic discomfort like tingling in genitals every once in awhile but it lasts maybe for a day or two. (I believe this is what is called asymptomatic shedding of the virus)..(??)

I would like to say I'm healed but I don't think it works that way. In the meantime, I'm happy to report that what is working for me is clean eating, periodic cleanses, supplements (I wrote them above), and Oil of Oregano >87?rvacol (sp) which I applied on the base of my spine (bottom) and the lymph gland area in the groin for about 8 mths.

Ellen
(USA)
02/05/2022

Think2,

Have you had a recent IgG test? I wish more would post the results of their testing. It does not have to involve a costly Doctors visit. There are a few online testing companies that are affordable and will send a prescription for your HSV testing to your local LabCorp or Quest Diagnostics. You get your results privately online. I've used ‘Request a Test' here in North America the last 2yrs. My next option is ‘STDCheck.com' or ‘UltaLab'. This allows me to affordably self-monitor what is or isnt working.

Replied by Bj
(Tx)
08/05/2015
★☆☆☆☆

Olive Leaf Extract (OLE) didn't work for me. I broke out really bad with bumps everywhere including my hands. But the symptoms returned.

Replied by Looking4naturalcureforh2
(Atl)
05/09/2016

Thank you for sharing information. It's been several years, but would you or others mind sharing info on test results. Mine is around 7.2 for H2. Want to bring it down to less than .91 for negative using natural way. I have been lucky not to have serious OBs, just minor, 2 so far.

Apple Cider Vinegar

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Posted by Barbara (Ia) on 08/31/2018
 ★★★★☆

Just came across this site--experiencing an outbreak after not having one for years. Wow I forgot how painful and itchy they are! OMG need help fast! The Apple Cider Vinegar sounded good to me--recently discovered it for other things--like mosquito bites. It took away the itch of mossie bites. So I read all the posts on Herpes sores--WOW--so many said it worked for them--So --I had a bottle of ACV in my bathroom--I had to look at what I was dealing with--spread a towel on my bed to see what the situation was --I could see a few sores in my genital area--I wanted to calm the area down a bit with warm water--and clean it--so I got a warm wash cloth/wiped the area--and used some mild soap (Dove) and dried it with a paper towel. Then I put a towel on my bed and grabbed the mirror and some cotton rounds--three--and the bottle of ACV--took each round and applied a good amount of ACV to the pad of cotton --then I quickly applied to the area--making sure to get the wettest part of the ACV on the round onto the sores. I was prepared for it to sting a lot--but it was not as bad as I thought. I think that washing the area with warm water and soap helped. And I think that they itched so SO much that any stinging I felt was a relief compared to the itching --it was awful--I applied one ACV cotton round then got another clean one --and soaked it with ACV--put it on with some pressure to really soak the sores--then I did a third one. Before I knew it ..I was not feeling any itching or pain from the sores. Amazing! I dried the area a bit with a paper towel pat--that might not have been a good idea since the ACV needs to be on them to dry them out. But so far so good. I did that about 20 minutes ago and I am still not feeling any itch or pain. Apple Cider Vinegar is AMAZING!! I usually don't post --or take advice from sites like this--but this is definitely worth it! And legit! Esp if you are suffering from those awful sores like me. I can't believe I walked around all day suffering with them now--and I did not have to! Try it! It is worth it!

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Hopeful (Stockton, Ca) on 06/19/2018

I've started the ACV regimen by soaking a cotton ball in it 3-4 times a day also pouring a little when I bathe.. I'm also using tea tree oil as well. I felt a lesion bear rectum. Now the right side of inner cheek is raw and when I wipe I see as if a scab has peeled. I'm in a lot of pain I'm currently trying the cornstarch method. I'm just scared and confused and will I see any results? The medication for HSV 2 is too costly. I need some relief and once or if this is going away will I still need the medicine? Any help is appreciated

Replied by Teena
(Melbourne, Australia)
06/20/2018
233 posts

Dear Hopeful, perhaps you can read up on the benefits of lysine and lecithin for the herpes virus. By treating from the inside you prevent the outbreak, rather than treat externally when outbreak has already occurred. Avoid any foods or energy drinks with arginine and aspartame, these will cause an outbreak. Keep a food diary app and see for yourself. Try mixing some healing castor oil with your Apple Cider Vinegar for topical use, or just castor oil until your sores have settled. Best to you

Replied by Ju
(Louisiana)
07/10/2018

You'll need to tell us if we are to drink it or place it on the genital. Thank you, no sex since left husband 38yrs old and now I'm 75 so how the hell did I catch herpes?

Replied by Teena
(Melbourne Australia)
07/11/2018
233 posts

Dear Ju, your immune system has held the herpes virus in check (dormant) and it is likely a recent stress on the immune system has tipped this balance. You can boost the immune system with lysine and whole food vitamin c, eg rosehip powder, and others. Your ACV you can take internal and apply external, it will likely sting, you may like to mix with Castor oil. If you do not get improvement from the acv, Further research how lecithin defeats herpes and shingles virus. Best to you.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Anicea (Springfield ) on 02/20/2018
 ★★★★★

So I was diagnosed with HSV 2 almost a year ago. I only use ACV with the Mother and corn starch. After using the restroom take a cotton swab or cotton ball dip in ACV then put a little corn starch to help dry it out. Usually gone within a few days. I only have outbreaks when I eat really badly, like drinking too much soda, or too much sweets.

Replied by John
(Alabama)
04/06/2018

I was just diagnosed yesterday with genital herpes. I first noticed signs a week ago when it burned while urinating. I immediately made a doctor's appointment. My doctor took blood and urine sample and told me it would be a few days for my results in come in. I haven't slept or had an appetite. My results came back negative, but I knew something was going on. I've been experiencing flu like systems, feeling weak and lethargic. I started noticed small bumps that have now spread and itch. I made a follow up appointment and was told I have a bad genital herpes outbreak. Can't describe how I feel in words. I'm only finding comfort reading other ppl's stories and knowing I'm not alone.

Karen
(Texas)
04/28/2021

John,

My doctor told me that 40% of adult Americans have Herpes 1 or 2. You are definitely not alone, but I remember how I felt when I found out. Just FYI, I was told that if you have one type, you probably won't get the other. I got type 2 from my ex-husband, but my current husband has type 1. However, we are careful anyway.

Replied by Natalia
(Mn, Usa)
04/08/2018

John, It sounds like you are in the throes of a viral storm! Interesting timing: HS outbreaks typically happen at Easter and Valentines when excess chocolate is consumed. I haven't read the thread, so this may be redundant, but are you supplementing with Lysine? It is an essential amino acid that we make from other amino acids and a chem in chocolate blocks the body's ability to make this conversion, resulting in Lysine deficiency and the opportunity for the HS's to overgrow. If you are vegan or even vegetarian, you need to seriously balance your protein intake. If not, you need to support your immune system. There is a great deal of information on the web about how to boost immunity and balance the body for optimal health; this would heal and prevent these outbreaks. No standard MD is going to do anything other than throw bandaid meds at you; you need to go much deeper.

The major consideration for our immune system is the gut; you need to be taking pre- and pro-biotics to begin healing and addressing your diet and environment to address your system failure.

In Native culture, we use anti-viral medicine that is simple and free. Dunno if you have flat or white cedar in AL, but that is what we use as a tea. You can use the needles and fans of any pine tree as a strong anti-viral. Just boil a large amount in clean water until the oil floats on top. Strain and drink sweetened - pref with a natural sweetener. Best to you.

Charity
(faithville, Us)
04/28/2021

Ted is always an informative read. My doctor told me I had herpes but is turned out to be from chicken pox and stress like shingles it was herpes zoster.

Ted's Remedies, Genital Herpes Remedies (earthclinic.com)


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