6 Remedies To Combat Herpes In Children

Herpes in children does not usually cause serious complications; in fact, some natural remedies can help relieve symptoms and speed your recovery.

Herpes in children is characterized by the appearance of small ulcers or sores around the mouth. Although it is a very common infection due to its high degree of contagion, it almost always worries parents, especially when it is accompanied by other discomforts.

It is developed by the attack of the herpes simplex virus type 1, whose transmission routes are saliva, skin-to-skin contact or handling a contaminated object. It is sometimes caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2, but the latter most often affects the genital area.

Unfortunately, there is no definitive cure for the virus and it remains lodged in the cells of the sensory nerve ganglia, even if there are no symptoms. Due to this, a new outbreak can be reactivated in situations of stress, low defenses or other diseases.

How to recognize herpes in children? What to do to combat it? Understanding the importance of solving these questions, below we want to share its main symptoms and some remedies that help in its treatment.

Herpes symptoms in children

The process of herpes infection in children lasts between 10 and 14 days, the time required for the sores to mature, break and form scabs. After this last stage, some particles of dead cells are shed that do not leave marks or scars.

Symptoms to recognize this infection include:

• Redness in the affected area
• Irritation and itching
• Ulcers or fluid-filled blisters
• Sensitivity to touch
• Dry skin and scabs (in its final stages)
• Moderate fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Throat pain

Remedies to treat herpes in children

The appearance of herpes in children is not usually a reason for pediatric emergencies. However, sometimes a doctor’s intervention is necessary to receive a prescription for antiviral medications. In general, some home remedies can help your recovery. Take aim!

1. Ice cubes

The skin that suffers from herpes increases in temperature and produces discomforts such as burning and itching. Therefore, to minimize discomfort while the infection occurs, a good option is to use ice cubes.

What should you do?

• Wrap several ice cubes in a cotton cloth and apply them around the child’s lips.
• Let it act for at least 10 minutes and, if necessary, repeat its use several times a day.

2. St. John’s wort

The infusion of St. John’s wort has antiviral properties that help the recovery of herpes in children, minimizing the risk of infection. In addition, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it favors the elimination of blisters.

What should you do?

• Dip a piece of cotton in an infusion of St. John’s wort and apply it to the affected areas.

• Let it act for 5 minutes and repeat its use 2 or 3 times a day.

3. Cabbage leaves

Cabbage leaf poultices are refreshing when herpes sores are burning. Due to their properties, they also protect injured skin and accelerate its healing process.

What should you do?

• Crush several cabbage leaves and apply them on the affected parts of the child’s skin.
• Let it act for 5 minutes and rinse.
• Repeat its use 2 times a day.

4. Milk

A little fresh milk can lessen the discomfort caused by herpes in children. Its nutrients favor the regeneration of tissues, reducing ulcers. They also prevent itching and burning.

What should you do?

• Dip a cotton ball in fresh milk.
• Then apply it as a compress on the affected part of the skin.

• Press it a little and let it act for 10 minutes.
• Rinse with cold water and repeat its use 3 times a day.

5. Clay

The medicinal properties of clay can be used as part of the treatment of herpes in children. Since it acts as an anti-inflammatory and soothing agent, it is ideal for eliminating the sores and burning caused by this infection.

What should you do?

• Dampen some white or green clay with warm water.
• Then, after obtaining a thick paste, apply it to the affected area.
• Let it act until the discomfort subsides.
• Finally, rinse with plenty of water.
• Repeat its use if you consider it necessary.

6. Calendula

Calendula flower infused washes provide a protective effect on the skin, accelerating the maturation of herpes sores. Thanks to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory compounds, it contributes to the control of this infectious disease.

What should you do?

• Rinse the child’s skin with marigold flower infusion.

• Repeat its application 2 times a day.

If herpes lesions in children get worse or do not show improvement, consult your pediatrician as soon as possible. It is also important to see a doctor in case of high fever, prolonged crying or general malaise.