There are different herpes infections and these are caused by the simplex virus 1 and 2 and although there is no cure for herpes, there are medications available to manage the outbreaks and relieve the symptoms. Treatments for genital herpes and cold sore outbreaks include: Over the counter and prescription anti-viral treatments which first came on the market some 15 years ago and if taken on a daily basis can reduce the outbreaks frequency. Also when the recurrence does occur, the symptoms are milder and of shorter duration. A natural healing formula made from essential oils has become available in the last few years and this too has been shown to have anti-viral properties against herpes simplex. This formula has become very popular when taken in a combined format where one product treats the outbreak of the herpes whilst the other provides a daily maintenance preventative program. In addition, there are self help ways of managing the symptoms of herpes infections: Genital Herpes -- Urination can sometimes be painful, so drink plenty of liquids and it may be less painful to urinate when in the bath -- Apply an ice pack to the infected area or bath in cool water whenever necessary. -- Take a mild pain reliever if needed -- Keep the infected area clean and dry - lightly pat dry or even use a hairdryer -- Wash bath towels and underwear frequently and wear loose clothing during outbreaks. -- Improve your immune system with a healthy lifestyle including a good balanced diet with plenty of rest and try to lower those stress levels. This can help to reduce the outbreaks. Cold sores -- Take a non prescriptive pain reliever -- Resist the temptation to lick or touch the area while keeping it as dry and clean as possible - an alcohol solution can help -- Wrap some ice in a damp clean cloth and apply this to the cold sore -- Try a moistened tea bag pressed on the cold sore every few minutes - the tannic acid in the tea has antiviral properties. -- Avoid eating acid food - for example lemons, grapefruit -- Make sure to protect the area from the sun and wind. There is ongoing research into new and improved herpes medication and it is important to keep up to date with any developments and breakthroughs. Vaccines against simplex virus are being produced but are still in the experimental stage with trials being conducted. These trials are designed to establish whether the experimental vaccines will prevent outbreaks of genital herpes in those people who are free of HSV and so obviously they are lengthy and no conclusive results are yet available. Such vaccines would not be a cure for genital herpes but a preventative measure. Amoils offers all natural treatments for common conditions and ailments using essential oils. Visit our