So maybe you know that herpes is not exactly a life-threatening condition. Nevertheless, you know it's extremely unpleasant! The first thing you need to remember is that you need to avoid any sexual contact when you're experiencing a blistering herpes outbreak.

Delay until there isn't a single trace of your blisters. That means you've waited for the scabs to fall off and for new skin to grow in their place. And in the meantime, there are lots of things you can do to help diminish the discomfort. A good first step is to use an ice pack. The cold ice will ease the pain and reduce the swelling that comes with genital herpes.

Next, try a warm bath with baking soda. The baking soda can do a lot for you by reducing the pain, and even relieving some of those itchy feelings. After you're finished, take your time to dry yourself very thoroughly and very carefully. You want the affected area to be dry and clean, which will ease your suffering.

Another thing you can do is take some natural supplements to slow the viral growth that occurs during a herpes outbreak. Zinc and other antioxidants could help you as well. Also, try an amino acid such as L-lysine.

In the meantime, try to avoid those foods that could suppress L-lysine. That includes dairy products, nuts, meat, oats, seeds, and corn. That doesn't leave you with a lot of choices, true, but it sure beats a protracted, itchy outbreak!

Immune supplements, such as Echinacea, goldenseal, and vitamin C will help speed healing, as well. (Avoid Echinacea if you're allergic to ragweed, though!) Remember to get plenty of sleep and lower your stress levels. This is nature's best immune strengtheners.

Treat your blisters with a topical solution. Use something like tea tree oil, a natural topical antiseptic. It can be applied several times daily at half or full strength.

If natural approaches to controlling your herpes outbreak aren't helpful, call your doctor. There are several medications out there that can help relieve your symptoms, and your doctor can prescribe one.

Just remember that while any and all of these treatments can help ease your discomfort, not a single one will cure herpes. They won't stop the spread of herpes either. Not even the medication prescribed by your doctor. You can even spread this disease through oral sex, so protect your partner, take care of yourself, and wait for a while!