Ayurvedic Name: Vicharchika
Description:
Herpes is a viral infection that is believed to be caused by an imbalance of Pitta and Kapha doshas, with Pitta’s heat leading to the formation of blisters and sores, while Kapha’s cold and heavy nature contributes to the chronic nature of the disease. Herpes in Ayurveda is also connected to Ama (toxins) buildup, which weakens the body’s immunity and allows the virus to manifest. The condition is aggravated by stress, poor digestion, and lifestyle factors. Ayurvedic treatments focus on balancing Pitta and Kapha, detoxifying the body, and enhancing immunity with herbs like Amla, Brahmi, and Tulsi.
Signs & Symptoms:
Rukshata (Dryness): Dryness in the mouth, lips, or skin occurs, especially around the blistered areas (such as lips), caused by viral infection or dehydration.
Anidra (Insomnia): Difficulty sleeping may be caused by the pain and discomfort from herpes lesions, particularly in the early stages of the infection.
Visham Jwara (Irregular Fever): Occasional fever episodes are common, especially during an active outbreak.
Kanduka (Swollen Lymph Nodes): Swelling of the lymph nodes, particularly in the affected area, may occur due to the body’s immune response.
Kandu (Itching): Intense itching around the affected area, especially before the appearance of blisters.
Twak Rookshata (Skin Dryness): Dry, flaky skin around the blistered areas during and after an outbreak.
Diagnosis:
Clinical exam with visual inspection of painful blisters and confirmation by PCR or viral culture for Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV).
Risk Factors:
1. Dietary Factors
Weak immune system: Poor nutrition, especially a lack of vitamins (like Vitamin C and Zinc), can compromise the immune system, making it easier for the herpes virus to reactivate.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to viral infections like herpes.
2. Lifestyle Factors
Unprotected sexual contact: Engaging in unprotected sex with an infected individual increases the risk of contracting genital herpes.
Stress: High levels of emotional or physical stress can trigger the reactivation of the herpes virus, leading to outbreaks.
3. Medical Conditions
Weakened immunity: Conditions like HIV or undergoing treatments like chemotherapy that weaken the immune system increase the risk of herpes outbreaks.
Skin injuries: Cuts, abrasions, or sunburns can trigger herpes outbreaks, particularly around the affected area.
Complications:
Recurrence (Vicharchika Vikruti) – Herpes infections can recur throughout life, with outbreaks triggered by factors like stress or a weakened immune system.
Neurological Complications (Shiroroga) – In severe cases, the herpes virus can affect the nervous system, leading to conditions like encephalitis or meningitis.
Eye Damage (Netra Vikruti) – Herpes can cause eye infections, leading to damage to the cornea and potential vision loss if left untreated.
Secondary Infections (Rakta Vikruti) – Herpes sores can become infected with bacteria, leading to additional complications like cellulitis.
Pain (Shoola) – Herpes outbreaks can be extremely painful, particularly during the blistering phase, and can cause long-term nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia).
Epidemeology:
Affects approximately 60-90% of the global population, with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) being more common than type 2 (HSV-2).
HSV-1 is most often contracted in childhood, while HSV-2 is typically spread through sexual contact.
Higher rates are seen in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those living with HIV.
The prevalence is particularly high in sexually active adults, with HSV-2 affecting 15-20% of the population worldwide.