Herpes Infection In Children: 6 Home Remedies
A herpes infection in children is usually not problematic. And you can use some natural home remedies to help relieve symptoms and speed recovery.
Typical of a herpes infection in children is the appearance of small ulcers or sores in the mouth area. This is a fairly common virus infection because the risk of infection is relatively high.
Parents almost always worry about such a herpes virus infection. Especially when it is accompanied by other complaints.
Usually it comes to a herpes infection by the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1). This is transmitted through saliva, direct skin contact, or handling a contaminated object.
Diseases caused by the herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV 2) are less common. The latter most commonly affects the genital area.
Unfortunately, so far there is no definitive cure. The virus remains in the body even after the infection has subsided. As a result , herpes outbreaks often occur again. Especially when you are exposed to stress, your immune system is weakened or you are struggling with other diseases.
How do you recognize a herpes infection in your children? And what can you do about it? In the following we describe the main symptoms and also give you a few natural home remedies. These can help with treatment.
This is how you recognize a herpes infection in children
The course of a herpes infection in children lasts between 10 and 14 days. During this time, the foci of inflammation form, then the wounds break open and at the end a crust forms.
The particles then fall off of dead cells without leaving any traces or scars.
Here are the main symptoms to recognize such an infection:
- Redness in the affected area
- Irritation and itching
- Wounds or blisters filled with fluid
- Affected area is sensitive to touch
- Dryness of the skin or crusts (in the final phase)
- Light fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Sore throat
Home remedies for treating herpes in children
The occurrence of a herpes infection in children is usually not an emergency. Sometimes, however, a visit to the pediatrician is necessary so that he can prescribe appropriate medication.
In addition, in general, you can also use some completely natural home remedies to contribute to relief and recovery. Here are some tips!
1. Ice cubes
The skin becomes warm with a herpes infection. There are also symptoms such as burning and itching. To relieve this, ice cubes are a great option.
What do you have to do?
- You simply wrap several ice cubes in a cotton towel and then place this on the area around the child’s lips.
- Leave on for at least 10 minutes. Repeat several times a day if necessary.
2. St. John’s wort
You can prepare a healing brew with St. John’s wort. This one has antiviral properties. This helps the healing process of herpes in children.
The risk of infection is also reduced. In addition , thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, St. John’s wort promotes the regression of the blisters.
What do you have to do?
- Soak a cotton ball with the St. John’s wort brew and apply this home remedy to the affected areas.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes. Repeat this application 2 to 3 times a day.
3. Cabbage leaves
Envelopes made from cabbage leaves have a refreshing effect. Because sore skin affected by a herpes infection tends to burn. Due to their positive properties, cabbage leaves also protect the injured skin and accelerate the healing process.
What do you have to do?
- First you chop up several cabbage leaves. You then apply this to the affected areas on your child’s skin.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes. Then rinse well.
- Repeat twice a day.
4. Milk for a herpes infection
A little fresh milk can also ease the discomfort in children with herpes. Because their nutrients promote tissue regeneration. And they reduce the development of ulcers. In addition, milk can also relieve itching and burning sensations.
What do you have to do?
- First, soak a cotton ball with fresh milk.
- Then you apply it like a compress to the affected area of the skin.
- You can carefully apply light pressure. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Then rinse with cold water. Repeat 3 times a day.
5. Clay
The medicinal properties of clay can also serve well in the treatment of herpes in children. Clay has anti-inflammatory and calming effects. Therefore, it is ideal for relieving and healing ulcers and burns caused by a herpes infection.
What do you have to do?
- First, you mix some white or green clay in warm water.
- Once you have a thick paste, apply it to the affected area.
- Then you let it take effect until the acute symptoms subside.
- Then rinse with plenty of water.
- Repeat if necessary.
6. Marigold for a herpes infection
You can use the petals of marigolds to make a type of facial toner. This has a protective effect on the skin. It can also speed up the healing of herpes sores. Thanks to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, this natural home remedy can have very positive effects on a herpes infection.
What do you have to do?
- Gently wash your child’s skin with an infusion of marigold flowers.
- Repeat twice a day.
Of course, if your child’s inflammation worsens or there is no improvement, you should definitely see a pediatrician. The same applies if the child has a high fever, continues crying, or is generally very unwell.
