Herpes can be painful and embarrassing due to the unwanted blisters caused by the herpes virus. Though there are several ways to sooth the sores, the outbreak seems to come back with most treatment.
One of the natural remedies found to be effective in treating the symptoms naturally is Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV). Though the results may vary from person to person, most people using apple cider vinegar for herpes treatment have found positive and better results as compared to other treatments.
Learn how it works and how to use ACV for herpes.
Do you have herpes?
Herpes is caused by a virus which can be present in the mouth and is commonly seen as cold sores. These are painful outbreaks that damage the skin if left untreated. The outbreaks are also seen in and around the lips, making you lose your self-confidence.
Oral herpes is caused by Herpes Simplex virus type 1 and the outbreak seems to go away in 7-10 days, though the virus remains in your body throughout your life.
Herpes virus can also cause outbreaks in the genitals which is due to the type 2 virus. The outbreaks are painful and may interfere with your sexual activities. The virus can be transmitted to your partner with unprotected sex, and therefore, it is important to take immediate action if you see herpes outbreak and take possible precautions to prevent it from spreading.
Do most people get cold sores?
Why is natural treatment better?
Since the herpes virus stays in your body once contracted, it becomes important to keep the virus in an inactive or dormant state to reduce outbreaks. There is no cure for the condition, although some medicines may provide some relief from pain and discomfort during every outbreak.
If you have contracted the virus, it is essential to take precaution lifelong to prevent the outbreak and reduce the chances of pain and damage to your skin.
Natural remedies are one of the best options for treating herpes, as it helps in preventing the outbreaks while healing them in a mild way. With no side effects, remedies like apple cider vinegar or essential oils can bring positive results in people suffering from herpes.
Natural remedies can help in reducing the triggers that make the virus active, thereby preventing outbreaks. You can use natural methods for as long as you want without worrying of the harm caused by any chemicals.
Though natural ways may also cause adverse effects if not followed in the correct manner, these may work wonders when used in the right way.
Why use apple cider vinegar for herpes?
ACV is worth the try to treat herpes. Though very little studies are present that explain the effect of vinegar in treating the condition, people using it have found great relief. It has no side effects and works in a mild way to heal the infection.
ACV is a potent antibacterial and antiviral agent that helps in killing the microorganisms effectively. Hence, it can be used in treating a variety of skin infections including herpes. Since herpes is caused by a virus, apple cider vinegar helps in killing the active virus and reduces the outbreak.
When applied directly to the blisters, it can reduce itching (source) and inflammation by instantly killing the blister-causing virus on the skin.
In addition to it, the acidic nature of the apple cider vinegar helps in maintaining the skin’s natural pH making it hard for the virus to attack and cause infections.
When consumed on a regular basis, the vinegar acts as a probiotic and protects the body from viral infections.
Besides, ACV is crammed with essential minerals that help in healing the wounds in a faster way.
The Best Antifungal Foods: Apple Cider Vinegar and More…
How to choose a good brand of ACV?
- Choose unpasteurized apple cider vinegar. Pasteurization is the process of heating a substance to kill the bad bacteria but it also kills the good health enhancing stuff too!
- Opt for unfiltered ACV. You want to keep the sediment that contains healthy vitamins, minerals and enzymes. It s called the “mother” of vinegars.
- Go organic to avoid pesticides and get a higher nutritional value.
- Bragg is one of the best brands of apple cider vinegar. You can buy it online here. It’s organic, unfiltered and unpasteurized.
How to use ACV for herpes?
For topical application:
- Dilute some untreated apple cider vinegar
with water - Dip a cotton ball in the solution and apply it on the affected area
- Repeat it 2-3 times until the sores disappear
You may also use undiluted vinegar but it may sting at the beginning.
For genital herpes, diluted apple cider vinegar can be used for douching. You may also leave a cotton swab dipped in apple cider vinegar on the sore overnight.
Is drinking apple cider vinegar good for herpes?
Alternatively, you may also consume it every day for protection from the outbreak as well as to promote faster healing.
Mix one teaspoon of ACV with a glass of water and drink it every day to keep the virus in a dormant state. You may also add Manuka honey to the drink for added health benefits.
If you don’t like the taste of apple cider vinegar, opt for ACV pills instead! Here I explain the pros and cons of apple cider vinegar in liquid form vs pills.
Caution: Apple cider vinegar can damage the esophagus, tooth enamel, and stomach lining due to the high level of citric acidic content. Moreover, direct application of apple cider vinegar on skin can cause irritation, rashes and a burning sensation. In order to prevent the side effects of apple cider vinegar on skin, it’s recommended to blend it with water. For contraindications, please read this page.
Though the results may vary from person to person, apple cider vinegar can be a great natural treatment for herpes. If you have any questions or if you want to share your experience using apple cider vinegar for herpes or other skin condition, feel free to leave a comment below!
Essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree essential oil, can also be very effective to treat herpes. Check this page to learn about other great natural remedies for herpes.
Also watch the below video with internationally renowned natural health physician Dr. Joseph Mercola who discusses about herpes and how to treat it naturally with organic elements.
You can also try the recipe her below that is recommended by the website tasteaholics.com. Drink this apple cider vinegar detox tea every morning for a metabolic and immune boost!
- Sources
- Disclaimer
Article by
J. Beck
Sources for this article include:
DISCLAIMER
The information provided on Optiderma.com is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified practitioner.
If you are allergic to the foods, herbs, essential oils, any remedies listed here, you must of course avoid them. For example, consuming food that you’re sensitive to will only cause more (not reduce!) inflammation.
Please consult a practitioner (such as Naturopath, Homeopath, Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Dermatologist, ...) to follow the most appropriate treatment to heal your skin. All legal mentions »
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