Fast Facts about Herpes
- People with genital herpes are at a greater risk of attaining HIV.
- 30% more cases of genital herpes are reported annually since 1970 globally.
- Nearly 15.5% of Americana aged 14 to 49 have HSV -2.
- More than half of America’s population is living with HSV-1.
- Approximately, 80% of all those infected with herpes are unaware about having it.
- 2/3 of the people infected with herpes are under the age of 25.
- On an average, one in every four females is infected with herpes as compared to every one in five males.
Genital herpes, caused by herpes simplex virus, is a sexually transmitted infection that affects one’s genitals, skin or the cervix. Herpes is a long-term chronic condition and most of the times, people who are infected by it aren’t even aware of carrying the virus. Genital herpes is caused by two types of viruses –HSV-1 and HSV-2.
The virus is most commonly transmitted during sexual intercourse between partners (vaginal, oral or anal) the virus gets transmitted thought one’s mucus membrane. Mucus membrane is nothing but layers of soft tissues that form the lining of the skin on our genitals, in our mouth and even nose. As soon as the virus gets inside its host body it initiates the cell formation process and multiples. Soon, it adapts to its new surrounding and make it permanent home. This is one reason why there is no known cure for herpes until now as getting rid of the infection is impossible. However, with proper medication and treatments, the infection can be out to rest for years.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of genital herpes in men include blisters on the scrotum, penis or buttocks. Women may develop blisters on or around their vaginal area, buttock or anus too. Some general symptoms that most men and women present when infected with herpes virus include:
- Blisters on the skin, around the mouth, on lips, face or any area in close contact
- Itchiness and tingling sensation before the blisters start to appear
- Oozing blisters
- Affected area getting covered with a crust within the first week of outbreak
- swelling of the lymph glands
- body aches, headaches and fever
Recommended Supplements
While eating a healthy diet and regular exercise helps to manage herpes, it is not enough to keep you fit and healthy. Supplements are essential for managing herpes and reducing its symptoms. But it should be kept in mind that supplements should not be used to replace the treatment for herpes. It is not always true that natural products are safe for use. Many products can react with your body and produce an adverse reaction. Thus, it is better to be safe and consult your before starting to use any supplements for managing your condition.
The following supplements have proven to benefit people with herpes:
Cayenne
Cayenne peppers have long been used as an herbal remedy to treat multiple health conditions for centuries. It is also known as a natural fat burner and painkiller, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Sometimes, referred to as paprika, cayenne pepper heals ulcers, aid digestion, herpes, arthritis, psoriasis, shingles etc.
Echinacea angustifolia root
A potent natural antibiotic, Echinacea augustifolia root has antiseptic, antiviral and antifungal properties that stimulate body’s resistance to infections, poisoning, viral infections etc. When applied as a lotion over the infected area, it removes all impurities and reduces itches and soreness caused by herpes simplex infection etc.
Hops
Flowers of the plant humulus lupulus, hops works as an effective pain reliever and leaves a calming effect on the skin. Many active components in its extract have antiviral properties that help fight diseases like HIV, cytomegalovirus and HSV-1 and HSV-2.
Oregon Grape Root
A natural herb typically used to treat blood disorders and bacterial infections. Oregon grape root also works wonders to reduce the symptoms of genital herpes. Its anti-fungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties makes it an effective applicator to fight bacterial infections and blisters caused by the herpes simplex infection.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an effective remedy to treat a number of skin infections. It is applied on cuts and abrasions, to relieve the stinging sensation of bug bites, boils and burns etc. Its anti-infmamatory properties make it beneficial to treat cases of herpes too. If one suffers an outbreak, its application reduces the itchiness and soreness.
The above natural supplements are known to help in controlling and managing herpes, but you should exercise proper caution and ask your doctor before adding any such supplements for in your diet. Herbs have lasting and strong effects on the body and can also interact with other drugs and medications, causing dangerous and adverse reactions. If you use any medication for your disease, talk to your doctor before you decide to start any supplements or herbal products to manage your health condition.