Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a very common human virus that exists as two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 is the most prevalent type and most often causes the oral outbreaks known as cold sores. HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes, and is transmitted through sexual contact. HSV-2 is widespread with approximately 13% of people aged 15-49 carrying the virus. 

Herpes infections, whether oral or genital, bring quite a bit of pain and discomfort. There can also be distress and undeserved stigma. Our goal was to provide a safe, natural product that can not only help fight the virus and prevent outbreaks, but also empower, strengthen, and elevate confidence. It can be used acutely for outbreaks, or as a daily preventative. 

HSV is considered a lifelong infection and goes through periods of remission and outbreak. The HSV virus is able to “hide out” in an inactive state in the body in such a way that the immune system and medications do not attack it. Often it hides along nerve cells.

When conditions are more favorable, such as when stress is high, or the immune system is low, the virus can reactivate, travel along the nerve to the skin, and create the contagious eruptions. Outbreaks consist of tingling, itching, and/or pain around the infected area, with the formation of blisters, sores, or ulcers that are painful and may scab over. These lesions are the most contagious stage of the infection. It can be transmitted through close contact such as kissing or sharing objects that come in contact with the outbreaks

Unfortunately there is no cure for HSV, as the virus is never fully cleared from the body. But there are several ways of managing infections. The most common treatment is antiviral drugs such as acyclovir and valacylovir. These medications interfere with how the virus replicates. These drugs are quite effective at treating outbreaks, but can come with unwanted and unpleasant side effects and reactions. There is also the issue of drug resistance since these medications are used so prevalently. Some topical creams are also available to treat outbreaks. 

Natural (non-pharmaceutical) options are available, and vary in their mechanism of action and effectiveness. Some researchers have been devoting studies to tease out what kinds of natural compounds have anti-HSV activity, and the Simplix formula has some of the best. Simplix can be used at a higher dose for acute outbreaks, or at a lower dose for preventative maintenance.

Any solution will work best in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle. This includes: 

• A plant-forward diet with adequate protein and healthy fats, and low in sugar, refined carbohydrates and processed foods will provide a good foundation for health and infection fighting ability. 
• Daily exercise and stress management tools (such as adaptogens, mindfulness and meditation, time in nature, etc) are very important as well to ensure that your immune system is operating optimally, and that stress is not causing it to dysfunction. 
• Triggers for herpes simplex outbreaks can include hormonal changes, a weakened immune system, and events such as injury or surgery, or unusual stress levels. This is why stress management and immune support are important to prevent outbreaks.