Herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and 2), according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2, although, it is mostly caused by HSV-2. Oral herpes is caused by HSV-1, and usually causes cold sores around the mouth or face, but can also cause genital herpes. Some people have no symptoms, while others develop sores that can turn into painful and itchy blisters. While herpes symptoms may come and go, the virus that caused the infection remains in the body, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Certain herbal remedies show promise in the treatment of herpes.
Echinacea
A Native American medicinal plant, echinacea is used to boost the immune system and help the body fight infections, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Canadian researchers found extracts of the genus echinacea appear to have antiviral activity against the herpes simplex virus. The findings were published in September 2002 in the "Planta Medica" journal.
Lemon Balm
Topical ointments containing lemon balm may help heal cold sores caused by HSV, according to UMMC. Italian researchers found the experimental use of lemon balm for treating herpes simplex lesions had promising results that warrant further study. The findings were published in 2008 in the "Natural Product Research" journal.
Applying lemon balm extracts to the first herpes outbreak may encourage healing and prevent further eruptions according to Natural Child Birth.org.
Aloe Vera
Historically, the aloe vera plant has been used to heal a variety of conditions including skin irritations, and may improve symptoms of genital herpes, according to the UMMC. Aloe vera can be applied topically to lesions or taken internally for its antiviral effect, notes Natural Child Birth.org.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is purported to have antiseptic properties and has been used to prevent and treat infections, according to the Mayo Clinic. A study published in 2001 in the "Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy" found that tea tree oil may help treat recurrent herpes labialis (RHL), or cold sores.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng has been used for centuries in Eastern medicine. It may reduce frequency, length and severity of herpes outbreaks according to the UMMC. The active ingredients in Siberian ginseng called "eleutherosides" are thought to stimulate the immune system.
Licorice
Licorice contains a steroid-like saponin called "glycyrrhizin," which can decrease pain and promote the healing of herpes lesions, according to Natural Child Birth.com. A New York University School of Medicine study published in March 2005 in the "Journal of Clinical Investigation" found that glycyrrhizic acid can attack the herpes virus while it is in a dormant phase.
