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Vitamins to Take for Herpes HSV 2 Spinal Nerves

Herpes HSV 2, or genital herpes, is a condition that cannot be cured. The reason for this is that the virus stays dormant in the spinal nerves and is released every so often, usually when the body is under stress, causing an outbreak. While there is not a cure for herpes, the symptoms can be treated and, in some cases, the number of outbreaks can be decreased. Vitamins and herbs have been found to be effective in the treatment of HSV 2.

  1. Vitamin A and Vitamin E

    • Vitamin A is often used by patients who have genital herpes because it is known to be a vitamin that stimulates the immune system. Studies have shown that patients who do not take enough Vitamin A actually experience more frequent breakouts. Vitamin A can be taken alone or as part of a daily vitamin. Exceeding the manufacturer's recommended dosing will not make the vitamin more effective.

      Vitamin E is often taken by those who have HSV 2 who are also taking Vitamin A. The reason for this is that the addition of Vitamin E helps to improve the response to the Vitamin A and also helps to reduce the effects of larger than normal dosages of Vitamin A, which are often prescribed by doctors. Do not exceed recommended dosing unless instructed to do so by your personal physician.

    Zinc

    • Zinc is also suggested for those who suffer from HSV 2. Zinc has long been linked to providing benefit to the immune system. This supplement has been studied throughout history for its ability to prevent and treat infections. Both oral and topical zinc treatments may be effective in treating herpes outbreaks.

    L-Lysine

    • L-lysine is another option for the treatment of HSV 2. L-lysine should be used not only as a treatment but as a preventive, which means it should be taken as prescribed even when an outbreak is not present. Studies have shown that when combining L-lysine with zinc that 40 percent of patients found relief by the third day and 87 percent of patients found relief by the sixth day. This study was conducted on oral herpes, but the use of L-lysine has been effective in treating both oral and genital herpes.

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