Genital herpes is caused by an infection of the herpes simplex virus and is transmitted through sexual intercourse. Symptoms include the presence of sores around the genital area, painful urination and muscle aches. Once you have become infected with the herpes simplex virus, you may continue to experience outbreaks of genital herpes throughout your life. However, anti-viral medicines may help to quicken your recovery and reduce the likelihood of further outbreaks. Some herbs may aid healing of genital herpes lesions, although clinical studies to prove that they are effective are limited. Talk to your doctor before using any new treatments.
Examples
A number of herbs may help to improve the symptoms of genital herpes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. These include Siberian ginseng and rhubarb cream. The stalks of the rhubarb plant are a commonly consumed food. The roots of the plant are also used to treat a variety of conditions, including fever, cancer and inflammation. RxList.com says that Siberian ginseng contains chemicals that affect the immune system, certain hormones and may also be active against certain viruses.
Effectiveness
Studies examining the role of Siberian ginseng and rhubarb in the treatment of genital herpes are lacking. A study in the June 2001 issue of "Antiviral Research," found that Siberian ginseng did not inhibit the adsorption or replication of the herpes simplex virus. However, the specific strain that causes genital herpes, known as herpes simplex type 2, was not studied. A study in the June 2003 edition of the "Chinese Journal of Experimental and Clinical Virology," found that an extract of rhubarb inhibited herpes simplex virus infection. However, the study was carried out in mice. Human studies are needed to confirm this effect.
Side Effects and Contraindications
RxList.com says that short-term use of Siberian ginseng is likely safe, although rare side effects may include drowsiness, anxiety and muscle spasms. Do not use this herb if you have a heart condition, high blood pressure, a hormonal condition such as breast or ovarian cancer, or diabetes. Also avoid Siberian ginseng if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Taking rhubarb orally may also cause side effects, but applying a cream containing extracts of this plant to your herpes lesions is unlikely to cause harm. However, get medical clearance before using either of these herbs.
Considerations
Because there is no cure for genital herpes, it is important to avoid becoming infected with the herpes simplex virus. The UMMC website says that you can reduce the likelihood of contracting genital herpes by limiting the number of sexual partners you have and using barrier contraceptives, such as condoms, to stop the virus spreading to or from your partner. Avoid touching your sores.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herpes Simplex Virus
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Rhubarb
- RxList.com: Siberian Ginseng
- Antiviral Research: Antiviral Activity of an Extract Derived from Roots of Eleutherococcus Senticosus
- Chinese Journal of Experimental and Clinical Virology: Inhibition Effects of Rhubarb Ethanol Extract on Herpes Simplex Virus Infection in Vivo
