Herpes 1 and 2 are viruses that cause cold sores and sores on the genitals and anal area. HSV 1 is a common virus that causes cold sores, and HSV2 is sexually transmitted.  At this point in time, there is no medical cure for herpes, but alternative treatments are rising in popularity as a way to not only minimize symptoms, but also eradicate them. Each individual case is different, and certain individuals react better to natural remedies than others, but the good news is that research is slowly but surely pointing to alternative treatment options to this mysterious virus. Listed below are some of the most popular home remedies for treating herpes.

Baking Soda and Cornstarch

Baking soda is known for its healing properties, and is a common ingredient in natural toothpastes and pain remedies. Cornstarch is used for baking and cooking, but it is also effective in calming down irritated and itching skin. The combination of baking soda and cornstarch does not cure herpes, but it works well to settle down itching and dry out open sores, in turn speeding up the healing process.

Lysine

Lysine is a supplement that is present in vegetables such as tomatoes and high protein foods such as meat and fish. It is also sold in supplement forms in health food stores. Lysine is a popular home remedy for herpes sufferers, as it is an amino acid that provides a healthy boost to the immune system. This boost to the immune system helps to minimize herpes outbreaks.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has been utilized for centuries as a treatment for skin flare-ups, sunburn, and dermatitis, and it is a popular home remedy for herpes flare-ups. The aloe plant contains a wide variety of antioxidants, and its gel filling works to cool and soothe herpes sores.  The combination of vitamins and cooling gel help to speed up the healing process, minimizing herpes flare up symptoms.

Black Tea

Black tea contains high levels of antioxidants, and black tea bags are a well known alternative treatment to herpes flare ups. It is important to make sure that the tea bags are cooled to a warm temperature. Once the bags are cooled down, they should be placed directly on the sores for five to ten minutes. The vitamins in the tea and the warmth of the bags will minimize swelling and speed up the healing process.

In Conclusion

While there is no reported medical cure for herpes, alternative treatments are coming a long way in the fight against the virus. Natural remedies work well to ease both internal and external symptoms, minimize flare ups, and boost the immune system.  While it can be frustrating for individuals suffering from herpes to deal with symptoms and outbreaks, the good news is that there is hope in home remedies. People suffering from herpes can minimize outbreaks and calm their symptoms by getting adequate rest, minimizing stress, and incorporating natural remedies into their treatment plan.