IMPORTANT
Unless otherwise stated on the package, most supplements and herbal remedies aren’t suitable for children under 12.
Click here for more details

Genital Herpes

What you need to know:

There are no natural remedies or complementary therapies that can cure this condition, but if the young woman or her partner have genital herpes, sex without a condom is, frankly, stupid.

Some culinary herbs might help. Lemon balm (Melissa) has powerful anti-viral properties, so use it in cooking and encourage her to drink Melissa tea at least once a day. Some of the other aromatic herbs are also anti-viral, so thyme, oregano, coriander and Basil are useful in cooking.

Dietary changes that may be beneficial:

It’s also important to keep the immune system functioning well and to nourish nerve tissues, which is where the virus lives. To do this you need to give the patient a well-balanced diet with plenty of complex carbohydrates - wholemeal cereals, pasta, wholemeal bread, rice - at least five portions (500 g in weight) of fresh fruit and vegetables and two litres of fluid a day.

Sugar makes the body less efficient at destroying bacteria, so does eating too much fat. But live bio-yoghurt produces acids that destroy invading bugs, so give them at least one carton, preferably organic, a day.

Other useful advice:

It goes without saying that smoking, drinking and too much alcohol does not do the immune system any favours, so teenagers, particularly those who aren’t in good health anyway, should be advised, lectured - bribed even - not to start smoking.

Getting enough sleep is essential. This is particularly important for older children and teenagers who, although they may feel ill, still manage to stay up late watching their favourite videos or playing computer games.

You should also encourage them to get some fresh air and exercise every day - even if it’s just taking the dog for a walk.

The most useful Herbs:

  • Echinacea
  • Garlic
  • Thyme
  • Green tea

The most useful Supplements:

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C
  • Bioflavonoids
  • Carotenoids
  • Zinc
  • Selenium
Back

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk).
The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.