Home Remedies for a Herpes Outbreak

Genital herpes can cause sores and blisters on the genitals and in the pubic and anal areas as well as the thighs and buttocks, which are sometimes painful and itchy. The infection cannot be cured, and in some people it causes sores to recur periodically, anywhere from once a month to once every few years. Between outbreaks, which last about a week, herpes shows no symptoms, though it may still be contagious. Doctors can prescribe several antiviral medications to control symptoms, but some people find that home remedies provide adequate relief.

First Aid

• Some of the most effective remedies for genital herpes symptoms are also the simplest. Treat the sores as you would any open wound. Keep them clean, and avoid touching them. Drink plenty of water because proper hydration speeds healing. Use a product like cornstarch to keep the herpes sores dry. Wear loose-fitting cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothes, which can be irritating and trap moisture. Warm baths can soothe any pain associated with the sores, and an over-the-counter painkiller such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or aspirin may be a good idea, too.

  Important to remember: Genital herpes is most contagious just before an outbreak (many people feel a tingling called a prodrome just prior to the outbreak) and when sores are on the skin. Avoid sexual intercourse during this time.

Herbs/Supplements

• Many manufacturers of dietary supplements tout their products as being good for relieving herpes symptoms. It's difficult to say how effective such remedies really are, because there hasn't been much scientific research on the topic. Some substances that are commonly promoted as herpes symptom relief are echinacea, siberian ginseng, zinc, aloe, lysine and bee products containing propolis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

  But keep in mind, the fact that such products don't require a prescription doesn't mean they are necessarily weak or without side effects. Check with your doctor before taking herbal or dietary supplements to treat genital herpes symptoms. They can cause strong reactions in some people and in some circumstances, and they can interfere with other medications. The results could be far worse than the symptoms of genital herpes.

  A few examples of side effects, from the University of Maryland Medical Center:
  -Siberian ginseng can cause an increase in blood pressure.
  -Echinacea, when taken over a long period, led to decreased levels of white blood cells.
  -Bee products can result in allergic reactions in individuals who have this allergy.