Herpes
There is no cure for herpes. But there are many natural treatments. Here is a list of the more common herbal remedies that you can use:
Andrographis paniculata
Andrographis paniculata is a herbaceous plant in the family Acanthaceae, native to India and Sri Lanka. This herbal remedy, when used in combo with Echninacea, helps in controlling the spread of infection. However, this herbal remedy must not be used by pregnant women and lactating mothers.
In the last 10 years or so, andrographis has become popular in America and Scandinavia where it is used as a preventative and treatment for the common cold – hence its modern nickname – ‘Indian echinachea’. But HSI Panellists have discovered that the herb has enormous potential in a far wider range of diseases. And now that the herb is available in the UK, we’re delighted to bring you this report about its extraordinary benefits.
Asteraceae
Echinacea purpurea is a species of flowering plant in the genus Echinacea. Its cone-shaped flowering heads are usually, but not always purple. It is native to eastern North America and present to some extent in the wild in much of the eastern, southeastern and midwest United States. Aside from being a potent natural anti-viral agent when combined with Andrographis, Echinacea can also be used for the restoration and repair of infected tissues and skin. It is also used to reduce inflammation that is associated with the viral infection.
Study results are mixed on whether echinacea effectively treats colds or flu. For example, two NCCAM-funded studies did not find a benefit from echinacea, either as Echinacea purpurea fresh-pressed juice for treating colds in children, or as an unrefined mixture of Echinacea angustifolia root and Echinacea purpurea root and herb in adults. However, other studies have shown that echinacea may be beneficial in treating upper respiratory infections.
Olive
Olea europea is a species of a small tree in the family Oleaceae, native to the coastal areas of the eastern Mediterranean Basin as well as northern Iran at the south end of the Caspian Sea. Its fruit, also called the olive, is of major agricultural importance in the Mediterranean region as the source of olive oil. This herb is most effective when used as an antiviral agent. Its aggressive action is directly focused on the herpes simplex virus. It specifically promotes viral shedding and controls the replication of the pathogenic microorganism.
The oil from the pericarp is cholagogue, a nourishing demulcent, emollient and laxative. Eating the oil reduces gastric secretions and is therefore of benefit to patients suffering from hyperacidity. The oil is also used internally as a laxative and to treat peptic ulcers. It is used externally to treat pruritis, the effects of stings or burns and as a vehicle for liniments. Used with alcohol it is a good hair tonic and used with oil of rosemary it is a good treatment for dandruff. The oil is also commonly used as a base for liniments and ointments. The leaves are antiseptic, astringent, febrifuge and sedative. A decoction is used in treating obstinate fevers, they also have a tranquillising effect on nervous tension and hypertension. Experimentally, they have been shown to decrease blood sugar levels by 17 – 23%. Externally, they are applied to abrasions. The bark is astringent, bitter and febrifuge. It is said to be a substitute for quinine in the treatment of malaria. In warm countries the bark exudes a gum-like substance that has been used as a vulnerary. The plant is used in Bach flower remedies – the keywords for prescribing it are ‘Complete exhaustion’ and ‘Mental fatigue’.
Hypericum
Hypericum perforatum is the plant species Hypericum perforatum, also known as Tipton’s Weed or Klamath weed, but, with qualifiers, is used to refer to any species of the genus Hypericum. This herb has antiviral components that control herpes infection. However, it is important that you consult with your physician before using the herb as natural herpes remedy as there is a possibility of serious interaction with some medications.
A tea made from the plant is popularly used as a mild nerve tonic for the treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and general unrest. Hypericum perforatum is also used as a diuretic, and for the treatment of gastritis. Vegetable oil preparations of the flowers are used externally for the treatment of hemorrhoids and inflammation.
Melissa
Melissa officinalis is a perennial herb in the mint family Lamiaceae, native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. The curative properties of this herb is primarily due to the presence of polyphenols which promote treatment of active herpes virus infection.
Lemon balm is a commonly grown household remedy with a long tradition as a tonic remedy that raises the spirits and lifts the heart. Modern research has shown that it can help significantly in the treatment of cold sores. The leaves and young flowering shoots are antibacterial, antispasmodic, antiviral, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive, emmenagogue, febrifuge, sedative, and tonic. It also acts to inhibit thyroid activity. An infusion of the leaves is used in the treatment of fevers and colds, indigestion associated with nervous tension, excitability and digestive upsets in children, hyperthyroidism, depression, mild insomnia, headaches etc. Externally, it is used to treat herpes, sores, gout, insect bites and as an insect repellent. The plant can be used fresh or dried, for drying it is harvested just before or just after flowering. The essential oil contains citral and citronella, which act to calm the central nervous system and are strongly antispasmodic. The plant also contains polyphenols, in particular these combat the herpes simplex virus which produces cold sores. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy. Its keyword is ‘Female aspects’. It is used to relax and rejuvenate, especially in cases of depression and nervous tension.
