There are two types of herpes, herpes simplex virus type 1 and herpes simplex virus type 2. Herpes simplex type 2, also called genital herpes, is the more severe of the two because it causes sores and itching on the genital area. It can be transmitted through sexual contact. Common symptoms are painful sores on the genitals, burning and itching, but there are other symptoms as well. These symptoms can be flu-like and can cause painful urination. Symptoms may not appear for 4 to 8 days after exposure to the virus. There are some natural remedies that can help relieve the symptoms, but there is no cure for herpes simplex 2.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a highly recommended herb for boosting the immune system that is important to avoiding outbreaks and relieving symptoms caused by the herpes virus. You can take echinacea three ways--tea, capsule and tincture. If you are taking it in tea form, the recommended dosage is 3 to 4 cups a day. If you decide to take echinacea capsules, the recommended dosage is 2 capsules, 3 times a day. If you plan to take it in tincture form, the recommended dosage is ¼ tsp., 3 times a day. It is recommended to take echinacea for a period of 3 months and after, during outbreaks.
Immune Support Tea
Pau d'arco is another recommended herb to include in your diet for 3 to 6 months. You can take it in tea form, tablet and tincture with the same recommended dosages as the echinacea. There is a special way to use pau d'arco in tea form and that includes using 4 parts pau d'arco, 2 parts echinacea and 1 part burdock root. Optional ingredients include cinnamon, orange peel or licorice root for taste. Take 4 to 6 tbsp. of the herb mixture per 1 qt. water and mix. Strain and drink 3 to 4 cups every day.
Reduced Stress Tea
Reducing stress is another important role in avoiding an outbreak of genital herpes and reducing its symptoms. You can make a reduced stress tea using 4 parts nettle, 3 parts oat straw, 3 parts chamomile, 1 part St. John's Wort, 1 part skullcap and 1 part passion flower. Take 4 to 6 tbsp. of this mixture per 1 qt. water and mix. Drink freely throughout the day when there are high levels of stress in your life.
Herbal Bath
An herbal bath can help relieve symptoms caused by herpes simplex virus type 2. Try an herbal bath blend with 3 parts chamomile, 1 part dry instant oatmeal, 1 part hops, 1 part comfrey leaf, 2 parts calendula and 1 part comfrey root. Mix these herbs together and place a handful or two in a handkerchief or a cotton bath bag. Tie it to the nozzle and let the hot water pour over it. Untie and let it flow freely in the water with you.
Astringent Bath
Taking an astringent bath can help relieve the symptoms of herpes also. An astringent bath includes 1 oz. dry chaparral leaves, 1 to 2 drops of tea tree oil and 4 tbsp. baking soda. Mix these together dry, and then mix them in oil. Do the same with this mixture as the herbal bath to help relieve the symptoms of the virus.
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