Viral infections are types of infections that are caused by virus; virus is smaller than bacteria and unlike bacteria it is impossible to kill. Herpes is a viral infection that is caused by HSV or herpes simplex virus. This infection is of two types, herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2. Type two is known to occur mostly below the waist around the buttocks and the genitals, while type is normally above the waist; around the lips, mouth, eyes, chin, and other parts of the skin. HSV effect can be managed with topical medications or with some common home herpes remedies. This disease is contagious, and can be contracted through direct contact or through sexual intercourse.

HSV type 1 commonly known as the fever blisters or cold sores is the most common type of this disease. It is mostly contracted through direct contact or exposure to the affected individuals. Even family members can infect each other through contact, and that includes new born babies. Areas of the body mostly vulnerable for infection are the lips, chin, nose, eyes, tongue, ears etc.

Having sexual intercourse with individuals who have herpes simplex virus type 2, is often one of the easiest ways to contract this disease.) Most common area of the body affected by HSV type 2 are the vagina, male's private parts, cervix and around the buttocks. Type 2 is the most serious and most painful. It will make going to the bathroom to urinate very difficult, as the burning sensation could be hard to tolerate.

This disease is a lifelong infection that can remain dormant for a long time; and when it breaks out, the phases of recurrence may linger for months. In certain situations, starting from the initial infection, the virus may actually travel to the nervous system and makes the neuron its residence, eventually weakening even the nervous system. As such, it is a good idea to boost one's immune system - primarily with good hygiene, diet, exercise and frequent visits to the doctor.

Right now there is no cure for herpes, even though there are some antiviral oral and topical medications available for relief. While that can be expensive, and while the disease can never be fully treated, there are known home remedies for herpes that one can whip up in the comforts of one's home using ingredients and materials available in most household kitchens.

- Household items like baking soda is believed to relieve insect bites and skin inflammations. Patting baking soda or cornstarch using a cotton ball or a clean cloth on the infected area will help ease the itchiness and the soreness.

- Drinking calming tea such as peppermint or chamomile will help calm one's nerves and ease the discomfort; after that you can use the tee bag on the blisters or the sores (black tea is better.) Note that the tea bag must be immediately disposed of after such application.

- One can also apply ice on the sores for 10-15 minutes.

- Milk can also be applied; dip cotton ball in milk and let it sit on the infected areas.

- Aloe Vera in its natural plant form, or its pure mixture form bought from the market, but not necessarily the cream that contains little amount of aloe vera.

- It is also advisable to wear loose underwear or nothing at all, so not to aggravate the sores with friction. The sores need air to heal, and any cover on them is counterproductive. This is one reason why using topical medicines or ointments are not always recommended until you talk with your doctor.

These are general home remedies for herpes and medications to cure it. It is also best to consult with your doctor first before trying out any of these remedies. This is probably one of the obvious types of infections where talking to your doctor matters a lot; regardless of what type of treatment you're getting.