Understanding Herpes - Issue #46

The herpes simplex virus may manifest as itching and burning blisters and sores located in the genital area. Eventually, the blisters open, leaving painful ulcers that heal within 10-21 days. Symptoms tend to flare up and then disappear for periods. Let’s take a look into what the illness does to the body, and how you can take control of your outbreaks.

When the symptoms arise, the you may feel sick and suffer from fever, headaches, and swollen lymph nodes, especially those located in the groin. Cold sores may even appear around the mouth. We need to begin by understanding what herpes is. It’s created by the herpes simplex virus, which is normally communicated via sexual contact with an infected person and manifests around the genitals. 

 The illness flares up in periodic attacks that often occur after sexual intercourse, sunbathing, or when the immune system is weakened. The affected person should avoid sexual activity when the symptoms assert themselves. 

Once infected, while modern medicine says it cannot be cured, however, approximately, 40% of infected people never have a second attack while most others experience between 4-5 attacks annually for several years. 

Eventually, the flareups become wider apart and less severe in nature. 

Early treatment, stress, and diet management may prevent or reduce the severity of the symptoms. The blisters and sores can be treated with antiviral herbs and medication, and the pain with OTC/herbal analgesics. 

Warm baths with a tablespoon of salt can soothe and assist in the healing process. The goal is to maintain a strong immune system, which is boosted by the recommendations offered below. Being vigilant in this manner, along with a balanced, healthy lifestyle, herpes flare-ups can be limited or disappear permanently. 

For at least 6 months:

 

Foods to Avoid/Moderate:

 

Herbs that help lessen the severity:

-Sarsaparilla-Dandelion -Gentian 

-1oz herb to 1 pint of water. -take 1 cup 2-3 times a day

-add at least 6 oz tea leaves to hot bath water, allow to cool, and then sit in it for about an hour

 

Remember, the goal is to maintain/handle your stress appropriately as this is avoiding outbreaks. Anytime you’re experiencing an outbreak, your body is trying to tell you that you’re under some form of emotional stress.

Let’s change the narrative of STD/STIs and remove the shame associated with them. You’re not dirty, damaged, or less than worthy of love & respect JUST because you may have an infection. You’re still a beautiful person who deserves the best out of life.

-Iya Ifayomi