Herpes

a naturopathic prescription for the signs and symptoms

• Herpes is a viral infection that usually occurs on the lips (cold sores), genitals, or on the trunk (herpes zoster or shingles).
• There is a prodrome (you know its coming because the site feels numb), then a red painful swelling, then blisters by the fourth day. Then painful ulcers might persist. Anyone who has ever had herpes knows it, and wouldn't wish it on anyone.
• The virus often lurks within the body and flares up with certain triggers - stress, sunlight, and dietary. So if you know your triggers, avoid them.
• Avoid chocolate, nuts (particularly peanuts), shellfish, chicken, turkey, veal, peas and beer - to reduce your arginine intake.
• Eat more baked beans, eggs, wheat germ, bananas, garlic, liver, tempeh, potatoes - to increase your lysine intake.
• l-Lysine, Chlorella, Propolis and Velvet Deer Antler are renown supplements.
• If you are switching from a high meat diet to a vegetarian diet, you might experience a herpes attack.
• Some find milk, especially coconut milk applied to genital sores provide some relief.
• Topical application (ie putting it straight on the sores) of aloe vera, vitamin C, E, lithium and zinc is known to help. Or T-Tree oil or eucalyptus oil - but take care with sensitivity.
• Deficiencies of selenium and vitamin E can cause flare-ups.
• Herbalists concentrate on building up the immune system with herbs such as Echinacea, St John's Wort, Cloves.
• Select a supplement from the following recommendations for your country (clicking the hyperlink refers you to a suitable supplier). Look for products with the following ingredients: lysine, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, zinc, selenium, echinacea, T-tree oil.

If the herpes persists, you need to make an appointment to consult a professional health practitioner.

Naturopaths consider WHY a person has herpes and then treat accordingly.

David Wilson, Naturopath

See also Food intolerance

Keep me informed about any news concerning herpes.