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Herpes Treatments

Below is a comprehensive guide to Herpes Treatments brought together by years of experience. Includes information such as safety, success rates and purchasing options.

Herpes is a viral condition that is greatly related to the state of your immune system. Did you know that some people are infected with herpes and cold sores but NEVER experience a flare-up or a recurrence?

In these rare cases, it is the person's immune system that is effectively controlling and suppressing the virus, which is why they see no symptoms.

If you are having problems controlling your herpes or cold sore condition the first step is to assess your health and see where you may be able to improve yourself.

Eating fresh fruit and vegetables, limiting toxins (such as alcohol and cigarettes), drinking plenty of water and doing regular moderate exercise are the first steps to improving your body's ability to fight the virus.

Also avoid foods that can aggravate HSV where possible, such as chocolate, nuts, oats, caffeine and brown rice.  These foods contain high levels of an amino acid that the  herpes virus needs to survive.

Herpes is a tricky little virus that does not always respond to treatment.  Over the years, many people have tried many different treatments in an attempt to stop herpes outbreaks and prevent the spread of infection to their partners.

Here is a list of treatments (both allopathic and traditional) that are recognized as being effective for some people:

Internal Antiviral Medications

Topical Antivial Treatments

Traditional Therapies

These antiviral medications are only available by prescription. 

Internal Antiviral medications can be used in two ways:

1. Suppressive Therapy

If your recurrent outbreaks are frequent or severe your doctor may recommend that you take oral antiviral medication every day to help prevent outbreaks happening. Suppressive therapy is taken continuously, e.g. daily, for months or even years. 

Some Doctors will prescribe daily antiviral medication to help reduce viral shedding (when herpes can spread without symptoms).

2. Episodic Therapy

With episodic treatment, the aim is to shorten the time each outbreak lasts and to relieve symptoms. If you are coping well and your outbreaks are not too frequent, you and your doctor may agree that episodic treatment is the most appropriate option.

You should consult your doctor for further information about antiviral treatment for your particular situation.

Internal Antiviral Drugs can:

These medical drugs are usually synthetically made and their usage should be very strictly monitored. 

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VALTREX (generic name, ACYCLOVIR):

WHAT IS VALTREX? 

Acyclovir is the same compound as Valtrex, only not as concentrated.  So you will need to take more of the Acyclovir more often to achieve the same dose.

Both medications are equally as effective but Valtrex is more convenient and more expensive than the generic Acyclovir.

When used as an episodic treatment, Valtrex can help the sores heal faster and shorten the period of pain during the outbreak.

If taken everyday, Valtrex may help to cut down the time during which the virus is detected on the skin (virus shedding). 

When taken as soon as the first signs of an outbreak are noticed (such as tingling, itching or redness) Valtrex may be able to completely prevent the development of painful blisters.

Valtrex is generally taken twice daily when used as an episodic treatment. For suppressive treatment, Valtrex is taken once daily, or sometimes twice a day if outbreaks are very frequent.

Please consult your doctor for your specific dosage.

SUCCESS RATE:

These medications are very helpful for a lot of people when taken within 72 hours of feeling symptoms. 

Antiviral medications are the only treatment option available from your Doctor for genital herpes.  unfortunately, they do not work for everyone which is why other alternatives are often sought after by patients.

You should consult your doctor for further information about antiviral treatment for your particular situation.

ADVERSE REACTIONS:

Most commonly reported side effects are headache, nausea, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.  Other side-effects can include joint pain and hair loss.

Serious complications have been reported in some cases where people have had an immune system that is not normal because of advanced HIV disease, or bone marrow or kidney transplant.

Full list of Valtrex (Acyclovir) side-effects

If you are interested in trying Valtrex or Acyclovir and already have a prescription, they can be purchased from these online stores at below retail prices:

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Famvir (Famciclovir):

WHAT IS FAMVIR? 

Famvir works in the same way as the drugs above (Valtrex and Acyclovir) but will sometimes work in cases where the others will not, and vice-versa.

Famvir is taken three times a day, when it is used as an episodic treatment for the initial genital herpes episode, or two times a day to treat recurrent outbreaks. Please consult your doctor for your specific dosage.

Famvir is approved in some countries for daily use as a suppressive therapy (your doctor will be able to advise you if this is the case in your country). When it is used in this way, it has been shown in clinical trials to increase the time between outbreaks. For suppressive therapy, Famvir is taken two times every day.

SUCCESS RATE:

As with the medications above, Famvir is very helpful for a lot of people when taken within 72 hours of feeling symptoms.

You should consult your doctor for further information about using Famvir for your particular situation.

Like all treatments, Famvir will not work for everyone.  If this is the case for you, try taking a different antiviral medication or a traditional or topical treatment such as those listed below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS:

Most commonly reported side effects are headache, nausea, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.  Other side-effects may include vomiting and fatigue.

As with the above medications, serious complications have been reported in some cases where people have had an immune system that is not normal because of advanced HIV disease, or bone marrow or kidney transplant.

Full list of Famvir side-effects

If you are interested in trying Famvir and already have a prescription, this medication can be purchased from the following online store at below retail prices:

Buy Famvir

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WHAT IS DYNAMICLEAR? 

Dynamiclear is a natural based topical product (applied externally) and is used on active skin irritation caused by the Herpes simplex virus (HSV).

It has been shown by demonstration that Dynamiclear will usually kill any herpes virus that it encounters. Immediately after application to the broken blisters or other symptoms mild to strong burning is felt. This appears to be the Dynamiclear molecule running down the peripheral nerves, killing the virus as it goes.

The use of Dynamiclear can result in:

1. Rapid healing of the infected area

2. Smaller, less intense outbreaks

3. Partial/Complete end to symptoms associated with the Herpes simplex virus

Dynamiclear is similar in its molecular structure to an earlier molecule used to purify water and is based around the action of Sulphur and the herb Hypericum (St John's Wort). 

The antiseptic and antibacterial qualities of Sulphur have been appreciated for hundreds of years and was successfully used last century to stop infection in soldiers' battle wounds. More recently, Sulphur has been employed as the basic fundamental molecule in modern antibiotics.

Most users report a rapid drying out of the blister or infection, with the area first going black, quickly followed by the forming of a healthy scab.

SUCCESS RATE:

Dynamiclear treatment used soon after the initial infection by the virus appears to be very successful because the virus has not yet permeated throughout the body.

There is strong evidence to indicate local eradication of the virus. Total eradication of the virus may be related to the duration of the infection and/or the strength of the virus strain acquired.

Clinical trials have been completed proving the safety and effectiveness of Dynamiclear as a treatment for the Herpes  simplex virus (HSV), offering a safe and fast-acting treatment alternative.

This is a very promising and exciting development for anyone affected by this virus who experiences active flare-ups (as opposed to those who are asymptomatic carriers of the virus and people who show no symptoms, in which case this treatment would not be effective).

The company can provide a list of customer testimonials claiming moderate to total success.

ADVERSE REACTIONS:

As with all treatments, in rare cases an individual may be sensitive. A skin sensitivity test should always be performed to ensure sensitivity is not a problem.

No noticeable side effects but a sharp to moderate stinging pain on application may be felt. Pain is sometimes strong and feels as if it were running down the nerve, but soon subsides. Not recommended by manufacturer during first 14 weeks of pregnancy.

More Information about this treatment (Dynamiclear).

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WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS?

Essential oils produce strong powerful results against skin infections and when used internally purge the blood of most pathogens.

Active ingredients vary from terpenes and sesquiterpenes through to ketones, aldehydes, esters, alcohols, and phenols.

The most commonly used essential oils are:

SUCCESS RATE:

Essential oils work very well when used for the right problem. Against the herpes virus there have been many, many reports of successful treatments. It seems to depend on the individual, one oil works well for one person and not so well for the next.

One product that has earned a good reputation in the herpes community is H-away made by the Healing Natural Oils company. H-away consist of pure essential oils specially selected and combined for use on herpes outbreaks.

H-away adheres to very strict quality standards. It is 100% pure, all natural and CERTIFIED ORGANIC. All extracts and essential oils in H-away have been tested to be 100% chemical and pesticide free, no synthetic substances present. Healing Natural Oils are a safe, efficient and affordable means of dealing with herpes and cold sore outbreaks.

The manufacturer claims that herpes outbreaks have been permanently eliminated by using H-away and H-prevention (a blend of essential oils that can be applied to strengthen the skin and prevent future recurrences).

H-away and H-prevention are composed of essential oils such as May Chang, Tea tree, Geranium, Hazelnut and other specially formulated natural ingredients.  These blends use separate anti-viral essential oils and plant extracts that are all medically proven to inactivate the herpes virus.

ADVERSE REACTIONS:

Essential oils are the refined active ingredients of flowers, leaves and roots of plants, and as such are very strong and can even be toxic when used in large quantities and to excess. As with all topically applied products, always do a skin sensitivity test to first determine if you have any unusual allergy.

Purchase Essential Oils for Herpes

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WHAT ARE THERAPEUTIC HERBS?

Herbs have been used for their medicinal properties for hundreds of years, on both humans and animals. Each herb works most effectively when chosen specifically for each person and ailment. The active ingredient in most herbs is an alkaloid, a very toxic molecule if taken in considerable excess.

When using herbs it is best for safety and quality purposes to buy standardized extracts, usually dispensed by accredited Herbalists or Naturopaths. You are then guaranteed to get quality/regulated concentrations, that if taken according to directions should cause no harm.

This advice only applies to the very strong and toxic medicinal herbs - not those that are used in the common kitchen to help our immune systems and flavor our foods.

SUCCESS RATE:

The following have all been shown to have anti-viral properties against Herpes Simplex:

• Andrographis paniculata

• Olive leaf extract

• Prunella vulgaris

• Echinacea

• Cactus opuntia streptacantha

• Red marine algae

• Melissa officinalis

• Licorice

Herbs specifically beneficial for herpes, include:

ANDROGRAPHIS:

• this herb has the ability to interfere with the way retro-viruses, such as herpes, alter the DNA of healthy cells.

• For this reason, a course of Andrographis paniculata is strongly recommended for anyone wishing to build a strong immune resistance against HSV, particularly in the early stages of infection or in persistent cases where other treatments are unable to work.

• Andrographis optimizes the immune system, enabling it to more effectively suppress and prevent a HSV infection. 

• The effectiveness of this herb is increased when it is taken in combination with Echinacea and Vitamin C

OLIVE LEAF

• is a herb that has been proven to reduce "Viral Shedding".  This means that if taken consistently, Olive Leaf has the potential to help prevent transmitting herpes to an uninfected partner.

• Dubbed the "Herpes Vaccine", some literature suggests that Olive Leaf may have the ability to help protect uninfected partners from contracting herpes.

• Olive Leaf also improves different immunity processes which are required to fight off and suppress the herpes virus.

ECHINACEA

• is highly regarded as a herb which can prevent the onset of viral infections.  Echinacea can often help to prevent a herpes or cold sore flare-up, particularly when taken in advance.

• A male patient, with a recurring genital herpes condition of 12 years, trialled Echinacea and found that if the herb was taken within two hours of the onset of the initial tingling, he had far less pain and the outbreak ended.  This case was reported in the British Journal of Phytotherapy.

When taking these herbal extracts try to make sure the herbs are "standardized".  It is particularly important when using herbs to manage herpes because this process helps to ensure that you are getting the right concentrations of the herbs to work properly and as intended.

These therapeutic herbs can be purchased at this website in a formula specifically for herpes

There are several medicinal herbs that are beneficial in dealing with most viruses:

• LAVENDER  - widely known for its rapid anti-staphylococcus and streptococcus effects, but is also beneficial against the cold sore/herpes virus.
  

• MYRRH - a plant herb that yields a therapeutic toxic resin renowned for curing severe ulcers, as well as chest and blood infections from viruses and other pathogens.
  

• SAGE  -  a moderately strong antiseptic that will kill most bacteria and viruses that it comes in contact with.

The following herbs may also be beneficial: 

• GOLDEN SEAL, FEVERFEW, BURDOCK, HYSSOP, LEMON, PENNYROYAL, ST. JOHN'S WORT, SARSAPARILLA, WINTERGREEN, WORMWOOD, GENTIAN, RED CLOVER

All of these have a greater or lesser affect on pathogens, such as bacterium and viruses, within the human physiology.

ADVERSE REACTIONS:

It is important to consult with your health care provider before taking herbs because even though they are natural substances they can be very powerful and can interact with some medications.  If you are currently taking a prescription medication or other natural therapy it is important that you consult with your practitioner before taking any herbs or herbal extracts.

Click Here to visit a site selling High quality Herbs

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WHAT IS OXYGEN THERAPY?

Relies on the principle that if we increase the blood concentration of oxygen its action is extremely potent against pathogens such as viruses and bacterium.

SUCCESS RATE:

Many reports are received of persons claiming partial to complete success with oxygen therapy.

ADVERSE REACTIONS:

Unfortunately if the blood concentration of oxygen exceeds a certain limit it is dangerous to normal cells, but this should not happen if the directions are followed.

Hydrogen peroxide should not be used as an oxygen source since most sources of hydrogen peroxide are not prepared for internal use and often contain high levels of unacceptable impurities.

Click Here to visit a site providing Oxygen Therapy

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WHAT ARE LYSINE, VITAMINS AND MINERALS? 

For some people, certain foods have a tendency to influence the frequency and severity of herpes and cold sore outbreaks. 

Scientists have found that foods that contain a high amount of the amino acid Arginine (such as chocolate, nuts, coffee, oats, brown rice and wheat) have the potential to fuel the herpes and cold sore virus and can sometimes lead to a flare up of symptoms.

This is due to the fact that the herpes virus (the same virus that causes cold sores) needs this amino acid Arginine to wake up and cause an outbreak.  If you have lots of Arginine in your diet this may provide the virus with an environment where it can thrive and therefore you may get more outbreaks more often.

Lysine is an amino acid which helps to naturally lower the body's level of Arginine.  So, if you eat foods that are high in Lysine (such as fresh fruits and vegetables, most dairy foods and fish) you can help to balance out the high levels of Arginine in your diet.

Clinical trials have shown that taking a 1250mg supplement of Lysine daily can help to restrict the growth of the herpes virus and can help with outbreaks. Two 625mg tablets, once daily, is the recommended dose in clinical studies.

Benefits of Lysine:

• Stops and reduces symptoms; including any sores or skin irritation, itching, tingling, leg pains and other noticeable signs of the herpes virus.

• May stop an outbreak before it starts if taken consistently each day at the recommended dose of 2 x 625mg tablets.

• Can help manage future episodes - Lysine may help to reduce the frequency and severity of any recurrences

• Helps to counteract any Arginine rich foods that you eat

The herpes virus also tends to come out when the skin is vulnerable, which is why it is common to have a cold sore after going in the sun for a long or intense period.  Friction during sex can activate a genital herpes outbreak in the same way for some people. 

Supplements such as:

• ZINC
• BIOFLAVONOIDS
• VITAMIN C

Can be taken to help build up a strong immune resistance and to improve the collagen and connective tissue in the skin, making a herpes outbreak less likely to happen and the skin more adaptable to healing when the symptoms do arise.

SUCCESS RATE:

Taking Lysine and other vitamins and minerals is a gentle yet effective way to help manage herpes conditions.  The herpes simplex virus (HSV) depends upon Arginine to grow and to become active so you can limit its activity quite successfully by taking Lysine and other nutrients that are beneficial against HSV.

When taking this combination of nutrients (mentioned above) the results are said to be 200% more effective than when taking Lysine alone.  This is likely to be because of the added resistance that zinc, bioflavonoids and vitamin c can provide to the skin and their ability to help ward off infections.

ADVERSE REACTIONS:

Vitamins, minerals and amino acids already exist naturally in our diets.  In fact, essential amino acids such as Lysine and Arginine can only be obtained through our diet.  Taking these supplements simply elevates these nutrients to help improve your body's resistance against the virus.

When taken as directed, there is very little chance of any adverse effect.  To avoid any disruption to the stomach these nutrients should be taken along with food.

More information about a multi-vitamin for herpes

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TIPS TO HELP WITH PAIN AND OTHER SYMPTOMS:

PAINFUL URINATION: For anyone experiencing extreme pain when urinating, the process can be less painful when done in a cool bath. Also drink plenty of fluids as this will dilute the urine and reduce stinging.

EPSOM SALT BATHS: used to wash the genital area this can greatly help to clean, soothe and dry the sores. Use 1 large scoop or a handful of "Epsom salts" in a warm bath of water and soak for as long as needed.

PAIN RELIEVERS:

• Dynamiclear - can help end the pain of an outbreak
• Simple analgesics - such as Aspirin and Paracetamol
• Ice - can be soothing if wrapped in a towel
• Cold tea bags - the tannins in tea can assist with healing
• Aloe vera gel - can be useful on skin that is not broken
• Creams - with an anaesthetic component
• Creams, however, can slow down drying and should therefore be used sparingly and only for pain relief.

LOOSE UNDERCLOTHES: preferably cotton (not nylon), can help minimize discomfort and allow healing.

Bach Flower Remedies may be prescribed to ease the emotional stress of herpes, particularly Crab Apple, White Chestnut or Rescue Remedy.

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