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cutaneous system
Herpes simplex
Integrative Therapies
Home Care
Herpes simplex, also known Genital Herpes and Cold Sores
Herpes is a recurring viral infection. There are two main types. Type 1 produces canker or cold sores around the mouth, lips, or eyes. Type 2 is genital or venereal herpes in which the sores appear on the genitals. Herpes is contagious and is passed to another person through direct skin contact, sexual intercourse, and sometimes contaminated bedding, clothes, or toilet seats.
An attack starts with a period of several days to several weeks during which the skin feels irritated, either tingling or itching. Then, small blisters appear that are filled with a clear fluid and have an inflammed, reddened base. These blisters last about 2 weeks or longer.
They often return at times when the immune system's resistance is down such as during another infection, trauma, emotional stress, poor diet, or excess sun exposure.
If you think you have genital herpes, see a physician to make sure it is not another venereal disease such as syphilis.
THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS ARE USED FOR HERPES AND CAN BE TAKEN UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:
1. Beta carotene 50,000 Units twice a day. Pregnant women (or women who may become pregnant) should not use more than 15,000 Units per day.
2. Vitamin C 1,000 milligrams, 2 to 6 times per day. Do not take more than 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C if you have kidney disease or a tendency toward kidney stones.
3. Vitamin E 400 Units per day
4. Zinc 30 milligrams per day
5. Thymus Extract 500 milligrams, 3 times per day
THE PROPER DIET WILL INCLUDE:
Lysine The growth of the herpes virus can be controlled by adding this amino acid to the diet. It can be taken as Lysine tablets 1,500 milligrams per day. Add to the diet foods that contain lysine such as fish, meat, eggs, brewers yeast, and, if you digest them well, dairy products. A good diet will also include salads and vegetables on daily basis.
Try to eliminate foods that contain the amino acid argenine such as chocolate, peanuts, and peanut butter, cashews and other nuts and seeds.
Sugar, sweets, coffee, tea, and alcohol can also feed the virus and decrease the immune system response.
THE FOLLOWING CAN BE APPLIED TOPICALLY TO THE SORES:
1. During the early stage, apply ice for 10 minutes then rest 5 minutes. Repeat for relief.
2. Zinc Sulphate solution or Lithium Succinate solution This is applied 3 times a day or more.
3. Licorice gel or Calendula extract These are often available in health food stores, and can be applied 3 times per day or more.
IF YOU HAVE A GENITAL HERPES OUTBREAK, USE THE FOLLOWING PRECAUTIONS:
1. Wear underwear to bed.
2. Refrain from sex during any stage of an outbreak.
3. Remember, the virus can be passed by trading clothes and by kissing.
4. If you are pregnant, let your obstetrician or midwife know you have had herpes outbreaks.
FOR ALL TYPES OF HERPES:
Wash your hands with soap and water upon waking and several times throughout the day.
HOMEOPATHY:
Rhus tox 12C: For an outbreak. Three pellets are dissolved under the tongue 3 times a day.
Note: A wide range of homeopathic medicines can be helpful for individuals with this condition. To prevent a relapse or to reduce the frequency, see a homeopathic physician who may use Sepia, Natrum mur, or another remedy. Consultation with a health care professional trained in homeopathic prescribing will usually be the best way to select the correct medicine.
Clinic
Footnotes
BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.