★★★★★
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.
