There is no cure for genital herpes, but there are many over-the-counter treatment options—as well as supplements, herbs, topical treatments, and even dietary changes—that may help clear up outbreaks faster. Show
In this article, I’ll talk about the early warning signs of genital herpes, outline some medicines and at-home treatments for outbreaks, and information on howto heal herpes sores faster. I’ll help you understand what is safe and backed by reliable evidence. And I’ll tell you when to talk to your doctor. The Early Warning Signs of Genital HerpesHerpes simplex type 2, the virus that causes genital herpes, affects nearly 12% of people under age 50 in the United States. HSV-1, the virus that causes oral herpes, is even more widespread, impacting almost half of all adults in the U.S. Worldwide, 3.7 billion people have at least one strain of herpes simplex virus. A patient can contract HSV and never show signs or symptoms. You can get the virus that causes genital herpes and never have an outbreak, or it may take years before one shows up. While the incubation period of HSV-2 is 2-12 days, genital herpes may not show up in that time. It is also possible to have no genital herpes sores but still be contagious. If you do contract genital herpes, the early signs of an outbreak can include:
Herpes Treatment Now Whether you’re having an outbreak or need long-term treatment, K can help. Get private, online herpes treatment today. Get Started MedicineIf you do develop a genital herpes outbreak, there is no quick-fix medication that will heal the sores instantly. However, there are antiviral medications that may shorten the outbreak duration. Other medications may be able to reduce the frequency of future outbreaks. No medication can cure herpes simplex.
SupplementsNot all supplements are the same, but a few types may be able to support the way that the immune system functions. This means that it may help your body to naturally suppress herpes simplex, which could decrease outbreaks. There are no guarantees with this approach, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements for effectiveness or safety as they do with medications. Talk to your healthcare provider before you start taking something new, as supplements can still interact with medications or may be contraindicated for certain medical conditions. ZincZinc is a mineral that supports the immune system’s general function, and may be able to decrease the frequency of herpes outbreaks. Get more zinc in your diet by eating foods like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, lamb, and pork. Supplementing daily with 30 milligrams of zinc may also decrease the number of yearly outbreaks. Vitamin B complexB vitamins help support general immune and nervous system function. Because B vitamins are water-soluble, and some B vitamins, like B12, are primarily only found in animal foods, vegans and vegetarians should pay close attention to supplementing these important nutrients. Even if you eat meat, B vitamins can support general health. B complex supplements include all the types of B vitamins: niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, folic acid, B6, and B12. Vitamin CVitamin C supports balanced immune function. It is found in high amounts in fruits and vegetables like bell peppers, oranges, strawberries, and mangoes. You can also take it in supplement form. A common supplement dose is 1,000 milligrams. Dietary ChangesWhile no specific diet will cure the herpes simplex virus, eating a nutritious diet and avoiding foods that may trigger outbreaks can help your body have a balanced response to the virus. Avoid alcoholConsuming a lot of alcohol, or drinking it on a regular basis, can suppress white blood cells. These are the cells that the immune system uses to keep viruses under control. Increased alcohol, and decreased white blood cells, could be a recipe for an outbreak. Avoid acidAcidic foods can irritate cold sores around the mouth, but they also can affect how well your body digests or breaks down nutrients. This can lead to changes in the way the immune system functions. Focus on less acidic foods: Reduce the intake of processed foods, sodas, and sugar. Eat more omega-3 fatty foodsOmega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory nutrients that support many aspects of health, including a healthy immune system. Many people do not commonly get enough omega-3s in their diets. Increase foods that are rich in these healthy fats, like salmon, mackerel, flaxseed, and chia seeds. ProbioticsThere is more bacteria in the body than cells, and the good bacteria that live in the gut have a regulating effect on how the immune system works. In one study, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, a particular strain of probiotics, helped balance the immune system’s response and general function toward herpes simplex virus. This study was done in a test tube, though, so the results still have to be tested more thoroughly in humans. Topical Herbs & OilsBe extremely careful when putting anything topical on your genitals. The skin in these areas is far more sensitive than other parts of the body. Still, some topical herbs and oils, when used correctly, may be able to provide relief for genital herpes sores. Some rules to follow:
Many of these remedies do not have strong clinical evidence behind them. While they may not be proven to be effective, they may also do no harm in trying. Discontinue anything that causes discomfort or other reactions. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before trying anything new. Tea tree oilThis antiviral essential oil has a strong, earthy smell. It is used in many natural antibacterial products, including toothpaste, mouthwash, and laundry detergent. A cell culture has shown that tea tree oil may be effective against the herpes simplex virus, but this was not tested directly on humans. Dilute with a carrier oil and apply a small amount to genital herpes blisters. Eucalyptus oilAnother potent antibacterial essential oil, eucalyptus may work similarly to tea tree oil. It has not been studied directly in humans. Dilute eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil and apply to herpes blisters. GarlicApplying fresh crushed garlic that is mixed with olive oil as a salve to herpes blisters may have an antiviral effect on herpes simplex. The study was done in a test tube. Other than a strong garlicky odor, be aware that undiluted raw garlic can cause surface burns and irritation, so be careful when trying this remedy. Ginger essential oilTest tube studies show that ginger essential oil can kill the herpes simplex type 2 virus. To use ginger essential oil, dilute it with a carrier oil to avoid burns and irritation. Thyme essential oilIn a test tube, thyme essential oil was also able to kill HSV-2. You can mix this with ginger essential oil and a carrier oil, or just use thyme with the carrier oil directly. Echinacea extractA potent antiviral herb, echinacea as part of a topical treatment was effective against both HSV-1 and HSV-2. Echinacea can be used without a carrier oil. Lemon balm extractTest tube studies in animal cells found that lemon balm extract was effective for suppressing the herpes simplex virus. Dilute it with a carrier oil before trying. Manuka honeyManuka honey is used as a topical wound treatment for many types of sores or blisters. Evidence shows that it can be effective for treating sores from HSV-1 or HSV-2. It is safe to apply to the genital area without dilution. Topical apple cider vinegarApple cider vinegar is used for many antiviral and anti-inflammatory purposes. If you use it for topical genital application, dilute it with warm water of at least three parts water to one part ACV. Aloe veraAloe vera is used to soothe burning, stinging sunburns, and it may also be effective for soothing discomfort from genital herpes. It has wound-healing properties and is safe to apply several times a day. It does not need to be diluted. Goat milkGoat milk has antiviral properties that may be effective against the herpes simplex virus. Apply goat milk topically to herpes blisters. No dilution is needed. CompressesBoth warm and cool compresses can ease pain and discomfort associated with herpes blisters. Don’t apply ice directly to the skin, though. Wrap a cold compress in a soft towel first. Some research finds that applying a warm compress at the first sign of a sore outbreak, when the tingling or numbing sensations begin, could decrease swelling and pain. Reducing OutbreaksIt is not always possible to prevent genital herpes outbreaks, but there are steps you can take to reduce the frequency with which they may occur.
Herpes Treatment Now Whether you’re having an outbreak or need long-term treatment, K can help. Get private, online herpes treatment today. Get Started When to Call a DoctorCheck in with your doctor or healthcare provider if you notice or experience any of the following:
If you have never had genital herpes before, see a medical provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. Subsequent outbreaks of herpes do not always require medical care unless you notice any complications, problems healing, or become pregnant. While there is no cure for genital herpes, a medical provider can recommend OTC and other treatments that may speed the healing time of sores, reduce the frequency of outbreaks, and relieve discomfort. Genital herpes may feel like an embarrassing problem, but you deserve to be comfortable. A medical doctor will not shame you, but will help you to get proper care and find relief. You can even chat with a K Health doctor right in the app, without leaving your home. How K Health Can HelpDid you know you can get affordable primary care with the K Health app? Download K to check your symptoms, explore conditions and treatments, and if needed text with a doctor in minutes. K Health’s AI-powered app is HIPAA compliant and based on 20 years of clinical data. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat helps a herpes sore heal faster? It is not always possible to speed the healing of herpes sores, but some topical or oral antiviral medications may reduce the time it takes to heal by a day or two. Can herpes sores heal in 2 days? Once a sore has fully formed, it usually takes 1-2 weeks for cold sores to heal and 2-4 weeks for genital sores to heal. How long does it take for herpes sores to go away? Herpes sores typically resolve on their own, even without medication or treatment, within 1-4 weeks depending on the location. First outbreaks tend to last longer, while subsequent outbreaks typically become less severe. K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. K Health has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.
How long do oral herpes sores take to heal?Oral herpes most often goes away by itself in 1 to 2 weeks. However, it may come back. Herpes infection may be severe and dangerous if: It occurs in or near the eye.
What heals a herpes sore fast?Topical antiviral creams: For herpes sore outbreaks, topical antiviral creams can shorten the duration of an outbreak. Some are available over the counter (OTC). Others require a prescription. These include penciclovir cream (Denavir) or acyclovir cream (Zovirax).
How do you treat mouth sores from herpes?Because cold sores are caused by a virus, doctors may suggest an antiviral medication to help you heal more quickly. The antiviral drugs used to treat cold sores include acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), famciclovir (Famvir), and penciclovir (Denavir).
Can a herpes sore heal overnight?It is not possible to get rid of a cold sore quickly, as there is currently no cure for HSV-1. In most cases, cold sores heal in 5–15 days without treatment. Antiviral medication may speed the healing process by about 1 day .
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