Herpes Treatment hsv-1

Conventional treatments for breakouts and suppression of herpes simplex (hsv-1) include; the alteration of one's diet, and the use of prescription medications, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir. These drugs work to inhibit the herpes virus replication. They can be used to treat a current outbreak by decreasing its duration, as well as be used prophylactically, to prevent future outbreaks. [4]

Alternative treatment has been very successful for treating both current outbreaks and as a prophylactic treatment. Nature provides us many effective, naturally occurring anti-viral nutrients, which have proven their effectiveness in various clinical trials.

Flavonoids

Flavonoids from plant sources have been effective at preventing virus replication in the Herpes Simplex virus. Certain flavonoids have also been proven effective at reducing infectivity of cells by hsv-1. In one study of propolis, a compound from the hives of honeybees, the flavonoid compounds were found to be twice as effective than acyclovir at reducing the healing time and promoting a reduction in localized symptoms. [5] I

In another study, quercitin was shown to reduce infectivity of hsv-1 and inhibit replication, while hesperiden was shown to reduce replication of hsv-1. [6] Other studies using quercitin found that this particular flavonoid enhances TNF (tumor necrosis factor), a component responsible for inhibiting the replication of hsv-1. [7]

Vitamin C

Both oral and topical delivery forms of vitamin C have been studied as a possible treatment for hsv-1. Vitamin has been shown to increase healing rates. In a study on patients with herpes labialis (hsv-1), supplementation with vitamin C mixed with citrus bioflavonoids for three days reduced vesiculation and disruption of the membrane (less crusting), as well as caused remission of symptoms in less time (2-4 days). [8] Other studies have included patients whom were treated with topical vitamin C over the duration of an outbreak. The topical application of vitamin C caused a decrease in virus replication as well as decrease in severity of symptoms. [9]

Lysine

Lysine is an amino acid that has anti-viral activity against hsv-1. The mechanism is competition with another amino acid, arginine, that is necessary for replication of the herpes virus. In study, Lysine has been rated better than placebo as a treatment for hsv-1. One particular study noted that the supplementation with lysine for six months caused a decrease in symptoms and a decrease in healing time in test subjects. Patients had 2.4 less outbreaks compared to placebo. Lysine was effective at reducing the occurrence, severity, and healing time. [10]

Zinc

Zinc has proven to be effective oral and topical anti-viral treatment for the herpes simplex virus Zinc has been shown to inhibit the replication of hsv-1 in vitro, while enhancing cell immunity in vivo. Oral Zinc is a common addition in many treatment protocols of hsv-1 clinical trials. [11] Combined with vitamin C, Zinc may be effective in reducing the frequency, severity, and duration of genital herpes. In several case studies, it has suppressed the eruption completely. [12] In a study using topical zinc oxide, patients reported shorter duration of lesions and reduction in symptoms. [13] A solution of zinc sulphate has also been proven effective at reducing symptoms and healing time of oral herpes. Zinc is also thought to prevent the recurrence of oral herpes. [14]

Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm possesses some anti-viral activity. Its components work at preventing infection of healthy cells by the virus. It has been equally effective at reducing herpes reoccurrence, and may reduce healing time by as much as half. In one study using balm mint extract from Melissa officinalis applied topically to the outbreak area, the healing period was shortened, there was decrease in symptom, and the vesicles were contained to initial lesions. Also, the outbreak did not spread. [15]

Glycyrrhiza glabra

A primary constituent of licorice root, glycyrrhizin, has potent anti-viral activity. In a study comparing the efficacy of idoxuridine gel combined with glycyrrhizin or idoxuridine gel alone, patients had decreased healing time and instantaneous pain relief with the combination compared to the idoxuridine alone. The glycyrrhizin was also shown to increase the absorption of idoxuridine. [16] Another component of licorice, glycyrrhizic acid, taken internally inhibits growth of the herpes simplex virus and can inactivate the virus. [17] Long-term oral use of licorice is not recommended due to the effects on the cardiovascular system. Topical treatment is considered safe and effective for long term use without side effects.

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