Ultraviolet light can stimulate the reactivation of the herpes simplex virus under the skin. Beta-carotene supplementation (100,000 IU or more daily) can help block free radical sun damage that leads to herpes activation. The mineral lithium may be of help to those who cannot tolerate acyclovir or other antiviral drugs commonly prescribed for both oral and genital herpes. Lithium interferes with the replication of the virus without affecting the host cells. It can be used in a topical ointment (eight per cent lithium succinate) or combined with zinc (zinc sulfate solution 0.025 per cent).

Another potent, natural antiviral agent is mild silver protein, which can be taken both internally or used topically without significant side-effects. For most adults, the usual dose is one teaspoon three times daily until the infection is well controlled, then one teaspoon daily for one month after the infection has cleared.

Oil of oregano is antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and antiparasitic. It also has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and is an ideal product to use for people that suffer from any viral or immune system disorder. For most infections, I recommend two to four drops under the tongue three times daily. Oil of oregano can be used topically for itches, infections of the skin, gums, teeth and just about any body orifice. Exercise care if you use it on the lips or genital region, where it is best mixed with olive oil or coconut oil before application (one drop per teaspoon of olive oil or coconut oil/butter).

Colostrum, derived from bovine sources, is another powerful immune system modulator that stimulates a sluggish immune system or dampens an overactive immune response as occurs with autoimmune diseases. Colostrum is a nutrient-rich milk precursor that contains immunoglobulins, growth factors, antimicrobial proteins and carbohydrates that transfer immunity from the mother cow to the calf’s gastrointestinal system immediately following birth. For about 48 hours after birth, the mother produces colostrum, which is free of milk, lactose, lactalbumin and other allergy-inducing products. Studies show that colostrum supplementation is a safe, effective, natural method of diarrhea control in humans, an alternative to over-the-counter and prescription antibiotics and bismuth. It has been documented to be helpful in the treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, AIDS, herpes and autoimmune disease.

Some authors, notably those in the "life extension" field, have advocated the oral intake of large doses of BHT, a chemical food preservative as both prevention and treatment of severe herpes. Although very effective, the long-term safety of this treatment is highly questionable. Some sensitive individuals may react adversely to BHT and other chemical preservatives.

Nutritional excesses and deficiencies may be important in preventing outbreaks. Avoid refined carbohydrates (sugar, white flour products) and alcohol, which have a depressant effect on the immune system as early as an hour after consumption. Stay away from tobacco smoke, both the first- and second-hand types. Zinc, vitamin C, bioflavonoids, vitamin E, vitamin A, beta-carotene, iron, copper, folic acid, vitamin B12 and essential amino acids are all important for optimum immune system health.

The amino acid lysine, when taken as a food supplement together with vitamin C, reduces the length and severity of the outbreaks with no significant side-effects. Supplementation of the amino acid arginine makes herpes worse. Arginine is found in almonds, cashews, peanuts, most grains, chicken, chocolate, corn, dairy products and meats. These foods should be avoided as much as possible, especially during a herpes attack.

Other natural remedies that enhance immunity are Lactobacillus acidophilus, echinacea, goldenseal (hydrastis), burdock, sheep sorrel, Turkish rhubarb, slippery elm, myrrh, red clover, capsicum, calendula, aloe vera, lomatium, hypericum, propolis, garlic, olive oil, castor bean oil, thymus extract and astragalus.

Topical calendula (marigold) cream and aloe vera gel may both be effective as antiseptics and relieve the pain of herpes blisters. Some victims find baking soda compresses, ice packs or cool compresses wet with hydrastis tea soothing. Alternate direct application of vitamin A cream and vitamin E cream speeds healing. For individualized regimens and dosages, see a naturopath or doctor familiar with these safe, natural remedies.

Zoltan Rona is the author of several best-selling books, including Return to the Joy of Health.

Source: alive #230, December 2001