The infection can be transmitted through oral (HSV-1) or genital (HSV-2) contact, being present for the entire life (dormant with active episodes).

Worldwide, 3.7 billion people suffer from a type of herpes. The oral herpes is characterized by the presence of small blisters around the mouth and, sometimes, a sore throat. Genital herpes has minimal symptoms but blisters can form in the respective area, leading to small ulcerations when breaking open.

Before the appearance of the blisters, one might also experience a tingling sensation or shooting pain in the area. The first episode is generally more severe, being accompanied by headaches, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle pain.

Even though the condition cannot be cured, as there are products such as such as Zostavax that prevent transmission in the first place. It can also be kept under control with medication and natural remedies. Let’s find out how to get rid of herpes symptoms naturally!

Heat application

A warm compress can help with the pain and inflammation caused by the viral infection. This should be applied as soon as one feels discomfort in the area. The heat application is also useful for labial herpes, the high temperature preventing the virus from replicating and, thus, reducing the risk of blisters.

Garlic as a topical, natural remedy

Garlic is one of the most popular natural remedies in the world, being appreciated for its potent antiviral properties. When it comes to this viral infection, it seems that it is effective against both strains of herpes.

In order to benefit from the virucidal activity of garlic, which is given by the active substance known as allicin, all you have to do is take a fresh clove of garlic and crush it. Then, mix it with olive oil and apply the resulting mixture on the cold sores (up to three times per day).

Australian tea tree oil

The Australian tea tree oil is well-appreciated for its powerful antiviral activity, being quite effective against the herpes simplex virus. The natural remedy is a recommended antiviral agent and a suitable choice for recurrent viral infections of this kind.

It has been demonstrated that this essential oil can speed the healing process, providing relief from the pain, inflammation, and itchiness. Given its strength, it should be mixed with a carrier oil (jojoba or coconut) before the skin application. It can be used for both cold sores and genital herpes.

Witch hazel

Witch hazel is a natural remedy with potent antiviral properties, which is beneficial against the herpetic infection. The witch hazel extract can be applied directly on the skin but, if you know that you are sensitive, it might be best to apply it diluted. It is especially effective against the type 1 herpes simplex virus.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a well-known natural remedy, which is often recommended for various skin conditions. When it comes to herpes, aloe vera can stimulate the faster healing of the herpetic lesions, soothing the skin and providing relief from the symptoms experienced.

One can apply pure aloe vera gel directly on the herpes lesions or, in case of extremely sensitive skin, dilute it first. Studies have confirmed that aloe vera is especially beneficial for genital herpes, demonstrating a potent antiviral activity.

Manuka honey

Manuka honey is recommended as a natural remedy against viral infections caused by both HSV-1 and HSV-2. It can be applied as such on the skin, without dilution being necessary.

The research confirmed manuka honey to be an effective solution against recurrent herpes simplex lesions, its efficacy being comparable to standard antiviral medication. It is a good choice for both labial and genital herpes, providing relief from pain and reducing the necessary healing time.

Goat milk

You might not expect goat milk to be a remedy against herpes infections but, as research confirms it, this is quite effective. Containing a substance with potent antiviral properties, it can be used as a topical application to speed up healing and eliminate the actual herpes lesions. The substance isolated from goat milk has proven to be particularly effective against HSV-1.

In conclusion, these are some of the most effective remedies one can try out to get naturally rid of herpes symptoms. The big advantage is that these do not cause discomforting side effects or adverse reactions, as medication often does.

Resilience is important when dealing with different kinds of illnesses such as herpes. Keep in mind that the herpes simplex infection can be transmitted from one person to the other, and take the necessary precaution measures to prevent infecting others.

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3821542/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1470664

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11338678

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92761/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4771053/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15278008 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28668682