Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus, commonly known as HSV, which causes sore, inflamed lesions to appear around the mouth or genitals. Herpes has no cure, and once you become infected the virus will lay dormant in your body for life. If you suffer from herpes, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medicines. Some herbs may have antiviral properties, although evidence to prove they are effective is mixed. Get medical advice before treating herpes with herbs.
Lemon Balm
Topical application of lemon balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, may soothe cold sores, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). An article by G. Mazzantini published in 2008 in "Natural Product Research" adds that this herb may also reduce replication of HSV-2, the viral strain responsible for genital herpes. Topical use of lemon balm is likely safe, but do not use it to treat a cold sore if you are pregnant or breastfeeding in case you ingest it.
Aloe
Aloe may aid the healing of genital herpes lesions, notes UMMC. However, an article by M.M. Perfect published in the October 2005 issue of the medical journal "Herpes" notes that there are insufficient clinical data to be confident of the efficacy and safety of aloe products for the treatment of genital herpes. Applying aloe gel on the skin is likely safe, but it may occasionally cause burning or itching.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng, also known as Eleutherococcus senticosus, may reduce the severity of genital herpes lesions and may also reduce the number of outbreaks, reports UMMC. However, there is no evidence that it can treat cold sores. Short-term use of Siberian ginseng is likely safe; side effects, although rare, may include drowsiness, anxiety and muscle spasms. This herb is contraindicated in a number of conditions including schizophrenia, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart conditions and hormone-sensitive conditions. It also interacts with a number of drugs, including lithium and digoxin. Get medical advice before taking Siberian ginseng.
Prevention
You can help prevent herpes and reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks by taking some simple measures. To avoid oral herpes, don't sharing personal items, wash your hands frequently and do not kiss anyone who has a cold sore. You can reduce the likelihood of an HSV-2 infection and prevent further attacks of genital herpes by limiting your number of sexual partners and using condoms. Avoid having sex if either you or your partner is suffering from an outbreak of genital herpes.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herpes Simplex Virus
- PubMed: Inhibitory Activity of Melissa Officinalis L. Extract on Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Replication
- RxList: Lemon Balm
- PubMed: Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine for the Treatment of Genital Herpes
- MedlinePlus: Aloe
- MedlinePlus: Siberian Ginseng
