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A Coconut Oil Cure for Herpes

Herpes Simplex II is a sexually transmitted disease which affects approximately 20% of the world's population. New medications like Valtrex have helped herpes sufferers keep their symptoms in remission by suppressing outbreaks. But they provide no cure.

Recent research involving natural, virgin coconut oil has led to hopes of a natural treatment for herpes and other viruses. Can coconut oil cure herpes?

  1. Anti-Viral Properties

    • Coconut oil has two important acids - lauric acid and capric acid. Research has shown that both of these have anti-viral properties - and specifically affect lipid coated viruses such as herpes and HIV.

      When humans ingest coconut oil, the body breaks lauric acid into another chemical called monolaurin. Monolaurin works from within killing viruses including Herpes Simplex I (Oral Herpes) and Simplex II (Genital Herpes).

    Quantity

    • For every 100 milliliters, or about 3.4 fluid ounces, of coconut oil, the body produces one gram of monolaurin. Research shows that, depending on a person's body size and chemistry, it takes between three and nine grams of Monolaurin to have a significant anti-viral impact. That means a person would have to consume between 10 and 33 ounces of coconut oil per day - which would likely make a person sick and has other health risks.

      Instead, it's easier to take lauricidin - a natural supplement made from coconut oil extracts. This is basically monolaurin taken out of the oil - and is much easier for a person to ingest in quantities necessary to make a difference.

    Not A Cure

    • While monolaurin kills the herpes virus, it can't actually cure herpes. It simply treats the symptoms - namely outbreaks. Many people with herpes have found that taking regular doses of lauricidin has reduced outbreaks - and even stopped them from occurring for long periods of time - much like Valtrex and other similar medications. For those who prefer natural options - coconut oil extracts may be preferable to a prescription medication.

      However, at this time there is no cure for any version of herpes. Before using coconut oil, extracts or any other product for herpes - make sure to consult a physician.

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