Marine Algae & Herpes

Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that can be contracted in two different strains. Herpes type one is the strain of the virus that most commonly affects the lips and inside of the mouth. This is when cold sores or fever blisters appear. Herpes virus type two is the strain that can cause sores on the genitals most commonly. However, it can also affect the inside of the mouth. Controlling the herpes virus is an important part of maintaining a comfortable and quality lifestyle for those who have to live with the herpes virus. Marine algae may be an alternative to traditional methods of controlling the herpes virus and providing sufferers with relief.

Red Marine Algae History

• Marine algae have been harvested for use as a food staple for most of recorded history. Documentation has been found in China that dates back to 600 B.C. extolling the benefits of marine algae. When marine algae are eaten, the nutrients are quickly absorbed by the body and put to work. Thus very little of the nutritional benefits of the algae is lost in digestion.

Causes of Herpes Outbreaks

• Herpes is a viral infection that is transmitted sexually. Although the outbreak portion of the virus is cleared from the skin by the immune system and the sores heal, the underlying virus itself hides in the nervous system of the body and is never completely removed from the body. A common cause of herpes outbreaks is stress. Stress causes chemical reactions in the body that are thought to activate the herpes virus. As stress and fatigue begin to wear down the body, the immune system is weakened and the herpes virus, if active, is able to create an outbreak of sores on the skin.

Marine Algae Effects on Herpes

• Red marine algae are credited with strengthening the body's immune system. This is a benefit to herpes sufferers because as the body deals with stress and fatigue the immune system will remain fortified to help keep the herpes virus under control. It is also thought that the sulfated polysaccharides that are found in red marine algae interferes with the herpes virus' ability to replicate and therefore hinder an outbreak of sores.

Benefits of Red Marine Algae

• Besides helping to control and reduce the severity of herpes outbreaks, red marine algae has shown to have several other beneficial traits. These additional benefits include strengthening of the immune system, increases in metabolism, and weight loss. While there haven't been any studies to support these claims, many users of red marine algae supplements will claim its benefits.

Caution

• Red marine algae has not be tested or studied by the Food and Drug Administration and is therefore not endorsed by the FDA. Before starting any new dietary supplement it is important to consult a doctor. If taking other over-the-counter or prescribed medicine, be sure to inform a physician before adding red marine algae.