Are there really all natural herbs that can cure herpes? While there are no cures for this virus, there are treatments than can reduce the effects or duration of it.
About Herpes
Herpes is a virus caused by either the herpes simplex 1 or herpes simplex 2 virus. The two most common forms of herpes are oral herpes (also known as cold sores) and genital herpes. Other lesser-known health conditions are also caused by the herpes virus including keratitis, and cerebral herpes encephalitis.
The progress of the disease is characterized between cycles of inactive phases and active phases. It is during the active phases where those suffering from herpes will experience painful lesions and a host of other symptoms.
Are There All Natural Herbs to Cure Herpes?
There is no known cure for herpes - the virus remains in the body for life. Even when someone infected with herpes is without symptoms, it is possible that they can transmit the virus to others. There is some evidence that herpes may become less active after it has been in the body for a number of years; however, even then it is possible to infect others with the virus.
While there are no all natural herbs to cure herpes, there are a number of herbal treatments that may help to minimize symptoms during active phases of the virus or to minimize and suppress the onset of active phases.
Because there is no known cure for herpes, beware of manufacturers that claim they have all natural herbs to cure herpes. If a manufacturer claims that their product will cure this virus, those claims have not been backed up by studies. Even if symptoms are not present, it is very likely that the herpes has not been cured and it is still possible to transmit the virus to others.
Herbal Treatments for Herpes
There are a number of treatments that may be beneficial in preventing the active phase of the virus or reducing symptoms during the active phase. Most of these claims have not been backed up by scientific study; however, they may be worth a try. The treatments can be administered either topically or orally, depending on the form of the herbs that you select.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, is believed to reduce the duration and frequency of active outbreaks of the herpes virus. It may also reduce symptoms during active outbreaks.
Recommended treatments for using lemon balm to treat herpes outbreaks include:
- Drink lemon balm tea by adding two teaspoons of leaves to a cup of boiling water and steeping for ten minutes. Drink this tea daily.
- Add a few drops of lemon balm essential oil to face cream to prevent active phase outbreaks of oral herpes.
- Apply lemon balm extract to an initial herpes outbreak to prevent recurrences of active outbreaks.
Self Heal
Self heal, also known as Prunella vulgaris or Heal All may prevent or minimize future herpes outbreaks when taken orally. There is a natural supplement called Herp-Eze which receives good customer reviews for lessening the duration of or suppressing active outbreaks of the virus.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian Ginseng, or Elutherococcus, may be helpful in reducing the duration and severity of herpes-2 (genital herpes). It doesn't appear to have the same effects on herpes-1 (oral herpes). Siberian ginseng may have this effect due to its immune-strengthening function, which may help the body to fight off active phases of the virus. For treatment, take one half to one tablespoon of liquid Siberian ginseng extract three times a day during active outbreaks of herpes.
Tea
Black, green and white tea, also known as Camellia sinensis, may inhibit the progress of the herpes-1 virus (oral herpes.) Drink three or four cups of tea per day during active outbreaks, or soak tea bags and place them on any active cold sores to reduce the duration of an outbreak.
Cautions
- While all of the above remedies may have some effect on herpes, it is always best to check with your personal health care provider before self-prescribing any treatment.
- The above methods are not backed up with reliable scientific study. Most evidence is anecdotal.
- If you are currently taking medication for your herpes, discuss treatment with supplemental herbs with your doctor or pharmacist to avoid possible interactions.
- There are known side-effects to some of the herbs listed above, particularly Siberian ginseng. Check with your personal health-care provider.
- None of the above remedies are a cure for herpes. There is still the possibility of transmission of the virus to others.
