Herpes
viral infections
The herpes virus exists as two major species. The first is Herpes
simplex, of which type I affects the mucus membranes of the mouth
and nose and type II affects the genital area. The second species
is Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles (sometimes Varicella
zoster). In the in the first case, the virus manifests as small
lesions that can often be quite painful (“cold sores”).
It is quite contagious, and most of the population has some form
of Herpes simplex type I. As sexual contact is required for type
II infection, it is a bit less common.
The second case can be much more debilitating, and often very painful.
It manifests as a characteristic red-to-brown rash, with somewhat
elevated skin that can be a bit rough to the touch, in an area around
the waist and sometimes radiating partway down the legs.
In both cases, the infection is permanent, as the virus resides
in the nervous system and cannot be eliminated. Inflammation of
the nervous system will, however, trigger the flare-ups without
which the infection would be essentially symptom-free – thus,
part of the strategy is to use relaxing nervines and adaptogens
to lessen the impact of stressors on the physiology.
Treatment Goal(s):
· Inhibit the virus, relax the physiology, alleviate pain
Primary Treatment:
· Administer teas of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm) and
Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) often throughout the day.
· Apply powdered Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) root and essential
oil of Melissa (Lemon Balm) (for H. simplex) and/or oil of Hypericum
(St. John’s Wort) (for H. zoster) to the affected areas as
often as necessary.
· Administer tincture of Hypericum (St. John’s Wort)
internally, 3 ml 5 times a day.
Supportive Treatment:
· The amino acid L-Lysine has been helpful in slowing the
replication of the Herpes virus. Take 500mg three times a day.
· Use relaxing, nervine infusions to support ongoing recovery:
Melissa (Lemon Balm), Avena (Oats) and Scutellaria (Scullcap) are
some places to start.
Differential
diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· Obviously limit contact during acute flare-ups.
