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So maybe you know that herpes is not exactly a life-threatening condition. Nevertheless, you know it's extremely unpleasant! First and foremost, remember to refrain from any sexual contact during a blistering herpes outbreak.

Wait until all sign of the blisters have gone - when the scabs have fallen off, and new skin has grown in its place. But even though you have to wait, there are things you can do now to help ease the pain. 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.

The next thing you can try is a nice warm bath with baking soda. The baking soda will also help with pain, and it should go a long way to relieve the itching as well. Be sure to dry yourself thoroughly (and carefully!) afterwards, as keeping the affected area dry and clean will also ease your symptoms.

To help retard the viral growth during a herpes outbreak, try taking some natural supplements. An amino acid like L-lysine, or other antioxidants such as zinc, can help slow down the viral growth.

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!

You can also help speed up your healing with immune supplements. These include vitamin C, Echinacea, and goldenseal. (Avoid Echinacea if you're allergic to ragweed, though!) Of course, remember that sleep and reduced stress are nature's best immune boosters.

Treat any blisters you develop topically. Tea tree oil is a natural topical antiseptic that can be used several times every day, at full or half strength.

Call your doctor if you find that none of these natural remedies does anything for your herpes outbreak. 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 spread the disease even through oral sexual contact. So wait a while and take care of yourself and your partner first!