This book discusses the major Natural and Alternative treatments for the Herpes Family viruses that have been documented in the Scientific and Medical Literature. It discusses several nutritional supplements and inexpensive over-the-counter medications that boost the immune system. It also discusses several foods, supplements and herbs that have anti-viral properties. The emphasis is on correlating potential natural and alternative therapies with relevant published research. Some have substantial supporting research and others very little. Get the documented facts, not unfounded claims.

While there's no cure for herpes, there is hope. Controlling Herpes Naturally is still the first and only book devoted exclusively to discussing the many natural remedies readily available to treat and prevent genital herpes, cold sores and shingles. This second edition features additional alternative methods --from diet, herbs, homeopathy, aromatherapy, dietary supplements, stress management and the right forms of exercise --to deal effectively with this condition without resorting to expensive and potentially risky prescription drugs. The recommendations outlined in Controlling Herpes Naturally are so practical, sensible and inexpensive that anyone with facial or genital herpes can put them to use right away to speed healing and to dramatically lessen the chance of future outbreaks. As the herpes virus affects millions of people worldwide, this sensible and informative guide offers real solutions for surviving herpes. Controlling Herpes Naturally is the definitive source for getting better, feeling better and staying better naturally. The reference section also has been updated and expanded.

Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2), also known by their taxonomical names Human alphaherpesvirus 1 and Human alphaherpesvirus 2, are two members of the human Herpesviridae family, a set of viruses that produce viral infections in the majority of humans. Both HSV-1 (which produces most cold sores) and HSV-2 (which produces most genital herpes) are common and contagious. They can be spread when an infected person begins shedding the virus. About 67% of the world population under the age of 50 has HSV-1. In the United States more than one-in-six people have HSV-2. Although it can be transmitted through any intimate contact, it is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Many of those who are infected never develop symptoms. Symptoms, when they occur, may include watery blisters in the skin or mucous membranes of the mouth, lips, nose, or genitals. Lesions heal with a scab characteristic of herpetic disease. Sometimes, the viruses cause mild or atypical symptoms during outbreaks. However, they can also cause more troublesome forms of herpes simplex. As neurotropic and neuroinvasive viruses, HSV-1 and -2 persist in the body by hiding from the immune system in the cell bodies of neurons. After the initial or primary infection, some infected people experience sporadicepisodes of viral reactivation or outbreaks. In an outbreak, the virus in a nerve cell becomes active and is transported via the neuron's axon to the skin, where virus replication and shedding occur and cause new sores.

The two most common herpes viruses are the herpes simplex viruses HSV-1 and HSV-2, both of which are lifelong nerve-infecting agents that remain dormant until reactivated by a triggering event, then become highly contagious blisters. HSV-1, or oral-facial herpes, is usually picked up in childhood and is present in 60 to 90 percent of the U.S. population. HSV-2, or genital herpes, affects about 20 percent of sexually active adults in this country. Picozzi reminds us that up until 15 years ago genital herpes was the most feared sexually transmitted disease, until it was eclipsed by AIDS. Prevention of outbreaks and treatment of both strains are basically the same: strengthening the immune system, reducing stress, following dietary guidelines, and practicing good hygiene. Picozzi's no-nonsense presentation outlines self-treatment options: foods to avoid or promote, stress control, over-the-counter preparations, and natural remedies, including vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and homeopathy.

Making Peace with Herpes is the most thought-provoking and original book ever written on the subject of herpes. Christopher Scipio started off as a victim of the virus and transformed himself into one of the most experienced holistic practitioners who treats herpes in North America. He is an outspoken advocate of treatment without drug therapy". While it is a subject that many people would rather avoid, Scipio points out that 60% of the sexually active population in North America has either herpes simplex 1 or 2. "70% of the people who have it either don't know they have it, won't admit they have it or are not treating it," Scipio explains "For some people having herpes can make you feel like a leper. There are no public fundraisers or celebrity spokespersons championing the cause of herpes. In fact you would be hard-pressed to get anyone to admit in public that they have 'the gift.' " "The good news and the ironic news is that herpes is one of the easiest diseases to manage naturally. There is absolutely no need for drug-therapy for herpes. This book isn't just about how to have fewer outbreaks or how to stop having outbreaks; just doing that isn't enough to be healthy. This book is about holistically healing your herpes and living a healthy, happy and balanced life. Holistic health is about much more than making symptoms go away." Making Peace with Herpes is a must read for everyone. Whether you have herpes, are in a relationship with someone with herpes or you just want to educate yourself on the worlds fastest growing pandemic; it's a self-empowerment guide of the first order.