Natural Herbs For Herpes

Herpes viruses are a family of viruses that cause a number of diseases including chickenpox, shingles and mononucleosis (also known as mono or glandular fever). However, when most people talk about herpes, they are referring specifically to the herpes simplex viruses, HSV1, which causes cold sores around the mouth and the more serious HSV2 which causes genital herpes. The use of natural herbs for herpes treats both types of herpes simplex virus in the same manner, using a holistic, three pronged approach. The stages are: 1) reducing stress, 2) boosting the immune system and 3) treating the cold sores themselves. We will now look at each of these stages in turn.

Natural Herbs for Herpes Stage 1: Lowering Stress

The herpes simplex virus resides in nerve endings located near the base of the spine. Because it is based in the nervous system, reducing stress is a key component in preventing outbreaks. A natural herbal tea to combat stress can be made by combining 4 parts nettle, 3 parts each of oat straw and chamomile, and one part each of St. John's wort, skullcap and passionflower. All these ingredients are known to treat symptoms of stress and anxiety. For example, St. John's wort is a natural antidepressant, while skullcap is well known by practitioners of herbalism as a natural herb to lower blood pressure.

The main ingredient, stinging nettles, are rich in nutrients – which is presumably why they had to evolve their sting, in order to prevent the entire plant from being eaten. They are high in chlorophyll, vitamin C and iron, making them a good tonic for the blood.

Natural Herbs for Herpes Stage 2: Boosting the Immune System

Because the herpes simplex virus reproduces by inhabiting neighboring cells, a healthy immune system is vital to prevent the virus from entering those cells. Echinacea is a popular immune booster, but less well known is the South American herb pau d'arco, a natural antibiotic used for centuries by inhabitants of the Amazon rain forest. A good immune support tea can be made by combining 4 parts pau d'arco with 2 parts echinacea and one part burdock root to cleanse the blood.

Natural Herbs for Herpes Stage 3: Topical Relief for Herpes Outbreaks

So, you've reduced your stress, boosted your immune system but those nasty little sores are still appearing. Have no fear, as there are natural herbs for herpes outbreaks that can be applied directly to the sores themselves. Mix equal parts goldenrod, black walnut hull and echinacea root powders, then moisten with a few drops of St John's wort and/or lemon balm tincture to make a paste. This can then be applied topically as needed. Be sure to cover with a band aid or bandage, in order to make a poultice.