jj_headshot_1.jpgThe basics about Herpes Simplex Virus are as follows;

  • About 50 percent to 80 percent of the adult population in the United States has oral herpes (commonly called cold sores or fever blisters), with as many as 90% having the virus by age 50.
  • Most people contract oral herpes when they are children by receiving a kiss from a friend or relative.
  • About one in five persons in the United States has genital herpes; however, as many as 90 percent are unaware that they have the virus.

As these facts display - herpes is quite common and while the symptoms are uncomfortable and sometimes emotionally devastating - please rest assured that there are many natural treatments to aid in the healing process.

Herpes is an infection that is caused by a herpes simplex virus (HSV). Oral herpes causes cold sores around the mouth or face. Genital herpes affects the genitals, buttocks or anal area. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). You get it from having sex, even oral sex. The virus can spread even when sores are not present and that is why it is always important to communicate with your sexual partner(s) about your diagnosis of HSV.

Some people have no symptoms. Others get sores near the area where the virus has entered the body. They turn into blisters, become itchy and painful, and then heal. The virus can be dangerous in newborn babies or in people with weak immune systems.

Most people have outbreaks several times a year. It seems that over time your body begins to respond to the virus and breakouts occur less often. Medicines to help your body fight the virus can help lessen symptoms and decrease outbreaks. Correct usage of latex condoms can reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of catching or spreading herpes.

From a Naturopathic perspective I believe a virus can truly only penetrate if the immune system is compromised or weakened.  Having said that it is important to know the many, many things that can compromise your immune system.
o    Improper nutrition
o    High intake of alcohol
o    Digestive complaints
o    Illness or dis-ease
o    Surgery, Radiation, Chemotherapy
o    Lack of water
o    Lack of sleep
o    Stress

If you have already been diagnosed with HSV here are some healing techniques to help with outbreaks and strengthen the body's defenses to decrease future occurrences.
o    Proper diet - limit sugar, caffeine, alcohol.  Load up on dark leafy greens and high mineral foods like kelp and blue/green algae.  Follow Anti-Inflammatory guidelines.
o    Use Lemon balm/propolis healing cream on active lesions to reduce discomfort and expedite healing.
o    Anti-viral tincture - taking a good anti-viral tincture with help active breakouts giving your body extra defenses
o    Immune Support - a daily tea, tincture or capsule of immune boosting herbs such as reishi mushroom, astragulus, or shatavari for 2-3 months.
o    Correct any digestive imbalances - 60% of your immune system is in the gut - a weakness here will affect the whole body.
o    Vitamin C - ascorbic acid - 3-5 grams per day.
o    Flower essences for the emotional healing aspect

And as always - back to the basics!  Good sleep, good food and fun play are essential to a healthy life.

- J.J. Pursell, ND, L.Ac., Certified Herbalist

Jennifer Pursell is a clinical trained and board certified Naturopathic physician.  Her practice is rooted in the belief that with patience, one can find the cause of dis-ease and encourage the body to heal.  As a certified herbalist she often utilizes botanical medicine, but includes many other modalities such as hydrotherapy, homeopathy, nutrition therapy and cranio-sacral therapy.  She is also a licensed Acupuncturist and when these therapies are used together, a well rounded treatment is created.   Her focus is whole family medicine, specializing in women's health, pediatrics and oncology.   As the owner of The Herb Shoppe she is easily reached at 503-234-7801 or at the shoppe, 2410 East Burnside, PDX 97214.