15 Effective Ways To Treat Herpes Outbreaks (#8 Is Kinda Cool!)

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Herpes. No one likes that word. The truth is, however, that it has been estimated that as much as 90 percent of the world’s population is infected with this virus. If you have ever had a cold sore on your lip or inside the mouth, you have the herpes virus. Most people are limited to one or two outbreaks a year, sometimes even less. But for some people, especially those with genital herpes, the outbreaks can be much more frequent and severe.

Type 1 herpes simplex, the virus that causes the cold sores on your lips, mouth, face, and sometimes other parts of the body, such as the buttocks, is the most common. Type 2 often causes sores on the genitals, and for women, inside the body on the cervix or uterus itself. For men, herpes on be on the penis or inside the urethra.

Although your doctor can prescribe various steroids or other types of medications to control these outbreaks, most can be greatly minimized with simple, natural methods. Keep in mind that there is no cure, but there are plenty of anti-viral compounds found in many of Mother Nature’s own products that can go a long way towards offering some relief from the itching, burning, tingling, and pain, as well as shorten recovery time.

Keep reading. We have 15 of the most effective ways to treat that herpes outbreak so you can get your life back to normal.

1. Licorice Root

This natural herb can be very helpful in fighting the herpes virus. Licorice root has glycyrrhiza acid, which is a natural anti-viral compound. Licorice root is often sold in a tea form. You can place the tea bag, once it has cooled, against the cold sore to help it to heal faster, and drink the tea as to help fight the virus from the inside out. You can also take a licorice root extract, but only after consulting your doctor for the proper dosage. Licorice root can result in a lowering of potassium in the body; however, for some people, it can cause high blood pressure, so always consult with your doctor before consumption.

2. Epsom Salt Soak

If you have genital herpes or if you have herpes sores on other parts of your body, Epsom salt can be a super healing soak of which you will want to take advantage. You can add a handful of Epsom salt to a half gallon of water and soak a rag in this solution, then apply the rag to the affected area. Alternately, you can add two cups of Epsom salts to a warm bath and soak for 20 minutes each day until you get relief from your symptoms.

3. Lemon Balm

This is one of the most effective herbal remedies for herpes. Lemon balm contains phenolic acid, rosmarinic acid and powerful flavonoids to help heal the sores and blisters faster. Prepare a lemon balm tea, and steep until the water is only warm, not hot. Soak a cotton ball in the tea, and then apply to the affected area. You can also drink the tea three times each day to help fight the virus from the inside out.

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