Background

Herpes Simplex is a viral disease that can lead to painful sores on the lips and mouth (oral herpes) and anogenital area (generally referred to as herpes).¹  Historically, Herpes Virus (HSV) Type 1 was responsible for the former and Type 2 for the latter; however, oral sexual practices have made HSV-1 and HSV-2 culprits in either disease.  Transmission of the infection is usually through close contact with a person who is shedding the virus—that individual may or may not have an active lesion—typically at a mucosal surface or in genital or oral secretions.  Infection occurs if the virus is in contact with susceptible surfaces such as the oropharynx, cervix, conjunctiva or through small cracks (perhaps even microscopic) in the skin.  Kissing and sexual activity are very common forms of transmission.  HSV is easily inactivated at room temperature and by drying so transmission through the air or fomites is rare.  Certain occupations that have increased likelihood of contact with oral secretions (dentists, respiratory care unit personnel, etc.) have increased risk of infection on other skin areas.  Transmission of HSV can occur in infants born to mothers who are shedding the virus at delivery.²  Keeping the immune system healthy may impact likelihood of infection and reactivation. 

The following outlines an Integrative Health approach for preventing and managing HSV infections.  The focus is on approaches not typically classed as conventional.

Surroundings

Physically, there are a number of considerations in terms of prevention of herpes infection and reactivation.¹  Maintaining the integrity of skin and mucosal barriers can decrease the vulnerability of the tissue to viral infection.  Avoiding injury to the face, lips, eyes, or mouth—including chapped lips—can decrease risk of reactivation.  Lip balm, especially that which contains the ingredient zinc sulfate, can be helpful. (More on zinc oxide below).  Also, wind, ultraviolet light, and sunlight are triggers, so taking appropriate precautions to avoid overexposure is logical.  Avoidance of tight-fitting clothes or seam lines that cause minor local trauma/irritation may help decrease risk of recurrent genital lesions.