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. And in the meantime, there are lots of things you can do to help diminish the discomfort. 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.

Next, try a warm bath with baking soda. Baking soda is great because it can help with the pain and reduce all the annoying itching, too. When you're done with your bath, be sure you dry yourself carefully and thoroughly. You'll reduce the uncomfortable symptoms by keeping the affected areas clean and dry.

Another thing you can do is take some natural supplements to slow the viral growth that occurs during a herpes outbreak. L-lysine, an amino acid, slows viral growth, and zinc and other antioxidants may help, too.

A change in diet is in order. Try to avoid foods that can suppress L-lysine, such as meat, seeds, nuts, dairy products, and corn. That doesn't leave you with a lot of choices, true, but it sure beats a protracted, itchy outbreak!

Then there's Echinacea, vitamin C, and golden seal... these are immune supplements that can help speed up the healing process. (Avoid Echinacea if you're allergic to ragweed, though!) Keep in mind that the most natural and effective immune boosters include sleep and reduced stress.

Treat your blisters with a topical solution. Use something like tea tree oil, a natural topical antiseptic. It can be applied several times daily at half or full strength.

If none of these natural approaches helps to get your herpes outbreak under control, get in touch with your doctor. 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!