Dave (Boca Raton, FL) on 04/06/2008:

I noticed I was getting more herpes outbreaks, and I suspected it was due to having slim fast shakes for breakfast. Just out of curiosity, I typed in "Slim Fast Herpes Outbreak" into Google and came across this discussion, where someone else mentioned they had a Slim Fast diet bar and immediately had an outbreak. I'm assuming the two are somehow related.

From the research I have done, the best herbal treatments for Genital Herpes is L-Lysine and Red Marine Algae. I also spray my groin area with Hydrogen Peroxide each night before I go to bed, and again in the morning when I wake up (about 20 mins or so before taking a shower). My doctor wants me on suppressive therapy (i.e., 500MG Valtrex per day), but I don't like the way it makes me feel, so I only take the Valtrex during outbreaks (2grams initially, and then 500MG twice daily until symptoms are gone) along with putting extra-strength Gold Bond Medicated Powder (Green Bottle) and Zovarax cream on the area during outbreaks, while spraying with hydrogen peroxide twice daily.

I've heard the following is also good for Herpes outbreaks: CoQ10, Echinachea, Pau D'Arco/Taheebo, Omega 3, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, Zinc, Garlic, Cat's Claw, Lecithin, Organic Geranium, Lipoic Acid, Lemonbalm/Melissa Leaves, Tea Tree Oil, Multivitamins, and Orange Juice, but I can't verify any of that.

Do *NOT* use petroleum jelly, cortisone creams, or antibiotic ointments as they will make the outbreak worse or last longer.

***AVOID*** eating Gelatin, Chocolate, Carob, Oats, Whole Wheat, White Flour, Soubeans, and Wheat Germ.

Stress is the number one predictor of an outbreak, so get plenty of rest and exercise to minimize outbreaks.