The herpes virus causes genital and oral herpes, which manifest as blisters on the genital or mouth regions of the body. Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 can occur in both areas, however, herpes simplex 2 is usually responsible for genital herpes. There is no cure for the herpes virus, however, the recurring outbreaks can be prevented and managed with medications and natural treatments. Many people are unaware that the herpes virus also causes chickenpox, shingles and Epstein-Barr, according to "The Herb Companion." Herbs may also be effective for treating these disorders, however before taking these remedies, you should discuss it with your physician.
St. John's wort
St. John's wort is an herb effective for preventing herpes, according to Dr. Jill Stansbury, N.D., chair of the Botanical Medicine Department at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine. A 2006 study led by Julia Serkedjieva from the Institute of Microbiology, Bulgaria, supports Stansbury's recommendation. In the study, the aerial parts of St. John's wort were combined with elderberry and soapwort, and the combination effectively inhibited the proliferation of the herpes virus. The results of the study, published in "Phytotherapy Research," reported the medicinal compounds that may be responsible for the herbs' success include triterpene saponins, flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids and polysaccharides.
Red Marine Algae
Red marine algae is an antiviral herb effective for fighting the herpes virus. The plant's polysaccharides stimulate the immune system's production of white blood cells. This action kills the herpes virus and prevents outbreaks. Two particular red marine algae varieties prove most effective against herpes, Dillwyn, a red algae from the Black Sea, and Nothogenia fastigiata, according to "The Herb Companion."
Astragalus
Like most viruses, the outbreak of herpes simplex may be effectively avoided by supporting the immune system, according to Stansbury. Astragalus has been used traditionally by Chinese medical doctors for thousands of years to support the immune system. The herb is classified as an adaptogen, which means it balances the body when it experiences stress, such as exposure to extreme temperatures, job stress or a relationship change.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm's antiviral compounds have successfully treated a host of viruses, including herpes simplex, according to clinical herbalist Terry Willard, president of the Canadian Association of Herbal Practitioners. Lemon Balm is an herb native to Europe and has been cultivated for centuries for medicinal use. The herb's principal anti-viral compound is rosmarinic acid. Consider purchasing a lemon balm lotion or salve product for the treatment of herpes blisters, according to The Epicentre.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Genital Herpes
- "The Herb Companion": Herbal Herpes Help
- "The Herb Companion": Deep Sea Nutrition: All About Seaweed
- "Phytotherapy Research": Antiviral activity of the infusion (SHS-174) from flowers of Sambucus nigra L., aerial parts of Hypericum perforatum L., and roots of Saponaria officinalis L. against influenza and herpes simplex viruses
- The Epicentre: Encyclopedia of Spices; Lemon Balm
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Astragalus
