Finding an effective herbal treatment for herpes simplex 2 can be incredibly frustrating. There are literally dozens of herbal treatments which people use with the hope of preventing outbreaks and relieving symptoms. In this article I hope to provide you with information on which herbal treatments are currently in use and whether there is any evidence to support their effectiveness. 

Why would someone choose an herbal treatment over prescription anti-viral medication? Well, there are a few reasons. Some people – myself included – do not like the idea of taking prescription medication everyday for the rest of their lives. It is important to remember that these medicines were never intended for lifelong use. In fact, they are usually only recommended for the first year after infection.

The side-effects of prescription antiviral medication can include:

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Headache

- Dizziness

- Abdominal pain

- Fatigue

In rare cases these drugs can even cause migraine, flatulence, and kidney failure.

There is also the issue of cost. Generic versions of these medicines have become available recently making them more affordable. But even these generic versions are still too expensive for many people without health insurance.

So which natural alternatives are available?

Below is a list of all your choices when it comes to herbal treatment for herpes simplex 2. I’ve also included information on method of application, clinical evidence, and any possible side-effects.

Algae / seaweed (oral or topical):

Commonly known as red marine algae, this treatment is believed to help strengthen the immune system. This is accomplished by increasing the number of immune-enhancing white blood cells. Red marine algae is also believed to help improve the skin’s ability to heal itself.

Aloe vera (topical):

Clinical studies have shown aloe vera extract to help reduce the healing time of genital herpes sores. Possible side effects include burning, redness, and itching

Astragalus (oral):

This treatment is derived from the root of the Astragalus plant which is native to Asia. Can be taken as a tea or in supplement form. Believed to help reduce the number of herpes outbreaks by strengthening the immune system. Possible side effects include frequent urination, intestinal discomfort, lower blood pressure, and lower blood sugar.

Bee products (topical):

Clinical studies have shown honey to help reduce the duration of outbreaks and speed up the healing of sores. Propolis is a sticky substance which bees produce from tree sap. Propolis has both anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. Propolis has been shown to improve the healing time of sores. Possible side effects include itching.

Dragon’s blood (oral or topical):

This is a pigment obtained from the Dragon’s Blood tree in the Amazon. Believed to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Thought to strengthen the immune system and improve the healing time of sores.  

Echinacea (oral):

This treatment is derived from the Echinacea flower. Usually taken as a tea or in pill form. Believed to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immunity boosting properties. Possible side effects include allergic reactions, sore throat, headaches, insomnia, and dizziness

Eucalyptus oil (topical):

Has been shown to have antiviral properties in clinical studies. It is also believed to reduce the pain and inflammation during an outbreak. Usually used topically in a highly diluted concentration.

Eleuthero / Siberian ginseng (oral):

Believed to reduce the duration, severity, and frequency of outbreaks. Possible side effects include drowsiness, anxiety, and irritability especially when taken in higher doses.

Garlic (diet, oral, or topical):

Boosts the immune system and has antiviral properties. Possible side effects include upset stomach, bloating, bad breath, and body odor.

Liquorice (oral or topical):

Believed to have antiviral properties. Usually ingested as a tea or applied topically.

Lemon balm / Melissa (oral or topical):

Shown to have antiviral properties against the herpes virus when applied topically. Appears to make outbreaks less intense and last for a shorter period of time. Potential side effects include drowsiness.

Peppermint oil (topical):

This oil is extracted from the leaves, stem, and flowers of the peppermint plant which is a cross between water mint and spearmint. In clinical studies the oil was found to have strong anti-viral properties against the herpes virus. Possible side-effects include allergic reactions and heartburn

Prunella Vulgaris / Self-heal (oral or topical):

This is a very common herb which grows just about everywhere. Usually ingested as a tea. Believed to have antiviral properties. In lab tests was shown to be effective against the herpes virus.

Resveratrol (diet or topical):

This is a naturally occurring substance found in the vines, seeds, and skins of grapes. In lab tests was found to have antiviral properties against the herpes virus and reduced the virus’s ability to replicate.

St John’s wort (oral or topical):

Extracted from the flowers and leaves of a wildflower. Believed to have antiviral properties and to reduce the severity and frequency of recurrent herpes outbreaks. Side-effects include sensitivity to light and there are possible drug-interactions.

Tea tree oil (topical):

Derived from the leaves of the tea tree. Found to have antiviral properties in clinical studies. Also, has a drying effect on skin which reduces the herpes virus’ ability to replicate. Possible side-effects include skin irritation and swelling.

Remember that this article does not constitute medical advice but provides the information you need to help yourself. Always consult a qualified medical professional before starting any herbal treatment for herpes simplex 2.