Home Remedies for Herpes

Home care can ease discomfort during an episode. It does not clear the virus, and it does not replace antiviral treatment.

Comfort measures

• Keep the area clean and dry, and wash gently with mild soap and water.
• Apply a cool, damp cloth for 10 to 15 minutes to ease pain and burning.
• Wear loose cotton clothing, especially for genital or shingles rashes.
• Take paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain if safe for you.
• For genital sores, passing urine in warm water or pouring water over the area may reduce stinging.
• Rest, drink enough fluids and sleep well.

Hygiene to protect others

• Do not touch sores, and wash hands afterwards.
• Do not share towels, lip balm, razors or utensils.
• Avoid kissing and sex from the first tingle until fully healed.
• Cover a shingles rash and avoid pregnant women, newborns and people with weak immunity who have not had chickenpox.

What to avoid

• Do not pop blisters or pick scabs.
• Do not put toothpaste, alcohol, ghee, oils or unproven pastes on open sores.
• Never put drops or home preparations in or near the eyes. Eye involvement needs urgent medical care.
• Do not give honey to a baby under 12 months, and do not apply remedies to a newborn's sores.

Key point

See a doctor early. Home care works as support while an antiviral does the main work.

Before your appointment

Note when the first symptoms began, where the sores or rash are, and any fever or pain. List past episodes, triggers, partners who should know, and any pregnancy. Bring your medicines and past reports, including HIV or STI tests. Ask about antiviral options, how to protect others and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.