Kitchen Powders

Baking Soda

Baking soda is an alkaline white powder, a combination of bicarbonate powder and cream of tarter used instead of yeast in baking. Sometimes, people get desperate and apply baking soda topically to blisters to dry them up. While baking soda is known to reduce inflammation and itch when used in the bath, the idea of using it to apply topically makes me shudder. Baking soda can sting due to its sodium (salt) content when applied to open blisters. I don't suggest the experience, even though it is safe to do so. Baking soda can sting a little, even on unopened lesions, but this should disappear quickly. If not, rinse it off immediately with cool water.

You might mix a bit of baking soda in a base of aloe vera gel to relieve the burn. Aloe Vera is also known to relieve itch. Dab a clean Q-Tip into a bit of aloe vera gel. Then, dab it into some baking soda. Pinch the Q-Tip lightly with your fingers to moisten the baking soda and apply it to blisters. Be sure to clean your skin and replace your baking soda dressing at least every 12 hours. Never dab your Q-Tip back into aloe vera or baking soda after touching blisters to avoid contamination. Instead, use a new Q-Tip. If you don't have Q-Tips, make a tiny bit of paste in the palm of your hand and use your finger to dab the paste on the lesions.

My favorite way to use baking soda is to add a handful or two to a warm bath and soak for 20 minutes, which defeats the purpose of drying out blisters, but it does help to soothe aches, relieve the itch, and speed healing.

Cornstarch 

Cornstarch is a powder made from corn. Using cornstarch can be a way to relieve irritated skin from conditions associated with dampness. Dusting cornstarch onto the skin's surface under the breasts, between the thighs, and on a baby's bottom can help keep skin dry. However, should it be used to keep herpes lesions dry? No.

Cornstarch should only be used temporarily, sparingly, and only on healthy skin.

NOTE: NEVER use cornstarch to relieve dampness or irritated skin inside of skin folds, such as near the vagina, penis, or anus. And don't apply it to open herpes lesions. Body movements (walking, sitting, squirming, and sexual intercourse) can move cornstarch into body folds where natural yeast and bacteria begin to feed on the sugars in cornstarch, causing yeast and bacterial infections. You don't ever want to increase the chance of a secondary infection. ​Instead, use a blow dryer to dry damp, irritated skin, wear cotton underwear, and don looser clothing so your skin is ventilated and can breathe.

Arrowroot

Arrowroot is a West Indian plant, similar to sweet potato and yam, from which starch is made. It's usually made into a powder used as flour and a thickener in foods like puddings. However, it's also used for cosmetic purposes and is incredibly soothing to the skin. It softens the skin and dries out blemishes or heals blemishes and wounds. Arrowroot powder is safe enough for a baby's skin. You can apply it directly to lesions. Arrowroot also helps with nausea, diarrhea, and recovery from illness. 

For more ideas on how to safely use all-natural ingredients for relieving herpes-related symptoms, see Fast HSV Relief and The Herbal Remedies Recipe Guide.