Genital herpes is transmitted by vaginal, anal or oro-genital contact. It is caused by either the herpes simplex viruses HSV type I or HSV type II. However, it was found that 80% of initial infections and 95% of recurrent infections are caused by HSV type II. Most infected individuals are asymptomatic; and therefore, untreated, increasing the risk for transmission and complications. Others experience genital herpes simplex symptoms three to seven days after the exposure to the virus.

Pain and red papules initially appear in the genital area. Afterward, the papules form into small painful fluid-filled blisters, which contain the virus particles. As the blisters break, the virus is spread into its surrounding area, resulting in patches of painful ulcers for six weeks. Any form of stress can reactivate the virus, resulting in recurrent infections. The symptoms of recurrent infections are less severe than those experienced during the initial infection. Burning, itching and tingling of the areas where the lesions appear have been reported a few days before the outbreak of the lesions.

Causes of Genital Herpes
Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 and Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 can primarily be held responsible for causing this contagious sexually transmitted disease. It is spread through direct contact with an infected person. HSV 1 also causes Cold Sores. Infection due to HSV 2 is more common in women. Individuals with weak or suppressed immune system are more susceptible to this problem. Factors like hormonal changes, pregnancy, menstruation, prolonged stress, genital infections, intake of steroid medications, exposure to sun etc are likely to trigger Genital Herpes outbreaks

Symptoms of Genital Herpes
Genital Herpes only causes minor or no symptoms at all. However, it can cause severe symptoms like blisters on or around the genital area in certain cases. Additional symptoms like painful urination, vaginal discharge, fever, flu-like symptoms and cold sores around mouth may also be present, especially when an individual is infected for first time. These symptoms usually last up to 20 days. Outbreaks due to HSV 2 occur more frequently as compared to Genital Herpes outbreaks caused by HSV 1. However, the recurrences tend to become less severe and heal sooner with the passage of time.

Itching, tingling and burning sensation may be felt before the appearance of sores caused by the infection. Given below are some natural remedies for Genital Herpes home treatment. However, keep in mind that there is no definite cure for Genital Herpes.

Natural Home Remedies for Genital Herpes
-- Warm sitz baths, showers and compresses serve as excellent natural home remedies for Genital Herpes sores. You can add Epsom salt in bath water to make this therapy more effective. Follow this simple method about three to four times in a day.

-- Placing ice packs is also helpful in reducing pain and itching associated with Genital Herpes sores. You can also use wet tea bags for this purpose.

-- Applying cotton balls soaked in milk is another valuable natural remedy for Genital Herpes sores. Cooking and then using a mixture of olive oil, lavender oil and beeswax is also beneficial.

-- Boil about two to three cups of water and add an ounce of black walnut tree powder for almost 15 minutes. Finally, soak a cotton ball in this solution and apply it on the affected area to get rid of Genital Herpes at home.

-- Herbal teas (especially peppermint tea) are considered as valuable Genital Herpes home remedies. You can also have 4-5 cups of licorice tea prepared by steeping half or one teaspoon of dried licorice root in 8 ounces of water for about 10 minutes. Do not continue follow this treatment for long or else it may lead to liver damage, high blood pressure, water retention etc.