Herpes Vitamin Remedies

Overview

At least 45 million people in the United States have herpes. There are two types: herpes simplex virus 1 and herpes simplex virus 2. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HSV 1 and HSV 2 are found and released from sores caused by the virus. The viruses can also be spread when sores are not visible. Genital herpes can be caused by HSV 1 but is more commonly caused by HSV 2. HSV 1 causes cold sores in the mouth area, but it can can be spread to the genitals via oral sex. There is no cure for herpes.

Outbreaks usually last from 7 to 14 days. There are numerous medications used to control herpes outbreaks, including Zovirax. Certain vitamins and supplements help control herpes outbreaks too.

Vitamins

Vitamins A, B complex and C are important for herpes, according to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," written by James and Phyllis Balch. These can be taken in pill form to supplement the diet and attained through diet.

Vitamin A is needed for healing and preventing the spread of infections. It can be found in milk, eggs, liver and fortified cereals. Vitamin B complex is needed for combating herpes and preventing the spread of infection. Vitamin B can be found in bananas, potatoes, eggs and meat. Vitamin C helps prevent and heal sores. It can be found in citrus fruits and papaya, broccoli and strawberries. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," citrus fruits should not be eaten during an outbreak.

Supplements

Lysine, zinc, acidophilus and essential fatty acids are important for herpes, according to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." It says when the amount of the amino acid lysine exceeds the amino acid arginine, the herpes virus is inhibited. Acidophilus prevents overgrowth of harmful bacteria and can be taken as a supplement. Essential fatty acids, such as salmon oil, are also helpful. Zinc boosts the immune system.

Benefits

The benefits of using vitamin remedies and supplements to control herpes outbreaks include having a healthier immune system and higher levels of lysine, which reduces reproduction of the virus.

Prevention/Solution

There is no cure for herpes. According to the CDC, the virus can be spread even when symptoms are not present. The only way to help control the spread of herpes is to practice safe sex with an uninfected partner or to abstain from sex.

Vitamin and supplement remedies can help control herpes outbreaks.

Warning

High doses of vitamins and supplements can be harmful. Seek out professional medical advice before taking extra vitamins and supplements. Lysine, for example, should only be taken for 6 months at a time.