The herpes simplex virus, or HSV, causes genital herpes and oral herpes. There are two strains of HSV -- HSV-1 causes oral herpes, commonly known as cold sores, while HSV-2 causes genital herpes. Once you become infected with herpes, it lays dormant in your nerve cells throughout your life. However, medicines such as valacyclovir and famciclovir may help to reduce the risk of an outbreak. A herb known as Siberian ginseng may also help to reduce the frequency of herpes outbreaks, although conclusive evidence to prove this is lacking. Get medical advice before using herbal supplements.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Also known as Eleutherococcus senticosus or Russian ginseng, Siberian ginseng may play a role in the treatment of cancer and stress, but it is primarily used to boost the immune system and increase overall strength and stamina. According to Mississippi Baptist Health Systems it may also reduce the frequency of herpes outbreaks. Siberian ginseng is known as an adaptogen. This means that it helps the body to adapt to all kinds of stress, including psychological stress and infection.
Efficacy
Studies examining the role of Siberian ginseng in the treatment of herpes are limited, and opinion appears divided as to whether it helps to the prevent herpes outbreaks. On the one hand, RxList states that it may be effective against HSV-2, but an analysis of clinical data published in the October 1999 issue of the "European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology" concludes that there is no compelling evidence to show this herb is an effective treatment for any condition, including herpes. More up-to-date findings are lacking.
Safety Considerations
Short- and long-term use is likely safe, according to Mississippi Baptist Health Systems. RxList states that side effects are rare, but adds that some people who use this herb experience drowsiness, melancholy and muscle spasms. High doses may also increase your blood pressure. Its use is contraindicated in several conditions, including hypertension, endometriosis and diabetes. It might also interact with other medicines you may be taking, including the heart medicine digoxin, and the mood stabilizer lithium.
Other Potentially Helpful Herbs
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that several other herbs may prove beneficial for herpes sufferers, including lemon balm, aloe and rhubarb cream. Topical application of these herbs may help herpes lesions to heal faster. UMMC adds that rhubarb cream might even be as effective as acyclovir, a drug used to treat cold sores. However, like Siberian ginseng, these herbs may cause side effects or might be unsuitable for you, so get medical advice before using them.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herpes Simplex Virus
- Mississippi Baptist Health Systems: Eleutherococcus Senticosus
- "European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology" ; The efficacy of ginseng. A Systematic Review of Randomised Clinical Trials; B.K. Vogler et al.; October 1999
- RxList: Siberian Ginseng
