Herbal Adaptogens & Antivirals
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is adaptogenic, contains antiviral properties, helps to boost your immune system, and supports the adrenal glands. Studies have shown that ashwagandha specifically reduces cortisol levels. Cortisol is a natural hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress. Some cortisol is healthy, but when stress is ongoing, cortisol can lead to Adrenal Burnout Syndrome and begin to damage your body. Ashwagandha may also be beneficial in easing symptoms of nervousness, Fibromyalgia Syndrome, Hypothyroidism, Restless Leg Syndrome, and muscle pain. See HSV & Overlapping Conditions for holistic alternatives for these conditions.
It's best to take ashwagandha in the evening before bedtime. Infuse one teaspoon of dried herbs into 1 cup of warm milk with cocoa nibs. You can add raw honey to sweeten things up.
Note: Avoid using ashwagandha root while pregnant, as it may cause miscarriage. Avoid using ashwagandha if you have issues metabolizing excess iron. Also, don't use ashwagandha with other sedatives, including other herbs that are known to cause sleepiness.
Astragalus
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a preventative that helps boost your immune system and support your adrenal glands (and may lower cortisol levels). Most agree that astragalus is not an immune stimulant. Meaning it's acceptable to use if you have an autoimmune disorder, but always check with your doctor before taking astragalus. Astragalus helps build white blood cells and supports the immune system after the use of immunosuppressants. Astragalus is also a tonic to the heart, kidneys, liver, lungs, intestines, and lymph system. It may also help alleviate symptoms of hay fever, toxins, joint pain, sugar imbalances, and cold and flu viruses. It has antiviral properties that target cold sores (HSV-1) and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV).
Side effects include rash, runny nose, and upset stomach, but these are uncommon. Astragalus could worsen fevers and certain infections. Why? Astragalus reduces sweating. Sweating is the body's way of cooling off. Therefore, avoid taking this herb if you have an acute illness, especially one accompanied by a fever. Astragalus is often used alongside steroids and Cancer treatments to reduce their toxicity. However, your doctor should supervise. Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system or those used in organ transplants. It may also enhance the potency of Interferon (a prescribed drug).
For tea, add one tablespoon of dried, chopped astragalus to 1 cup of boiling water, steep for 10 minutes, then strain and drink. To make a decoction, add one tablespoon to 8 ounces of water in a covered pot, simmer (don't boil) for 20 minutes, and strain. You can add the decoction to broths, soups, and stews. A typical dose is 9-30 grams daily.
Catnip
Catnip (Nepeta cataria), the same "nip" cats love, is an antiviral and is suggested for anyone sensitive to stress or who suffers from frequent stress-related symptoms. Catnip, a member of the mint family, is excellent for calming the body, relieving stomach upset, alleviating all-over body aches and pain, and reducing fever. Catnip is safe to consume daily without interruption. Don't use catnip during pregnancy or along with sedatives or medications for sleep, anxiety, or depression. Catnip is perfect for clearing digestive gases and can be taken as tea daily (2-3 cups daily)
Elderberry
Elderberry is immune-boosting and antiviral. Elderberry juices and syrups treat headaches, the common flu, Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), infections (especially respiratory), inflammation, nerve pain, and dental pain. You can use it to support heart health, as a diuretic, and as a laxative. Elderberry is rich in antiviral anthocyanins, which give plants their black, dark purple, or blue color, and are known to help alleviate symptoms associated with cold sores and genital herpes. However, before you rush to cut off branches, it's essential to understand that many parts of the plant are poisonous.
Never eat the berries uncooked directly from the plant, and never use branches, bark, or leaves in cooking or juicing. Use only flowers and berries from the American or European Elderberry. Other types of elders may be more toxic and contain substances called cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide. However, store-bought (commercial) preparations and home-cooked berries don't contain cyanide. The seeds contain small amounts of lectin, which can cause stomach upset in those sensitive to it. Therefore, it's best to strain your berries thoroughly when making juices and syrups.
Note: Elderberry shouldn't be used by individuals under 18 years of age, pregnant women, or nursing mothers.
Echinacea
Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) can help boost the immune system when used in conjunction with other antiviral herbs. Echinacea is an immunostimulant with some antimicrobial properties and is high in antioxidants. While echinacea has some ability to boost the immune system, it has no direct effect against viruses on its own. Additionally, echinacea is a periodic supplement, and it is recommended to cycle its use. Some individuals have used echinacea for up to eight weeks at a time. However, I suggest using it only for a typical cold or flu period (7-14 days) and then taking a two-week break.
When using echinacea, be sure to add iron-rich foods to your diet.
Don't give echinacea to children under 12. Children are more sensitive to echinacea. About 7% of children develop a rash that could be an allergic reaction. Some echinacea products are contaminated with arsenic, lead, or selenium. Therefore, exercise caution when purchasing. While selenium can help combat herpes, too much could pose a problem.
Avoid echinacea if you have an autoimmune disorder, Leukemia, Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), AIDS, Tuberculosis, or Rheumatoid Arthritis. Echinacea can lower your white blood cell count and reduce immune function when taken for long periods. We need white blood cells to fight infection. It can also interfere with certain drugs and worsen autoimmune conditions. Overuse can cause Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and more frequent and severe infections.
Holy Basil
Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) is an immune-boosting and antiviral herb. It's one of my favorites for flavor. It is called Tulsi and contains compounds such as apigenin and ursolic acid, which help fight the Herpes Simplex Virus, Hepatitis B, and Enterovirus. Holy basil enhances immunity by increasing the number of helper T cells and killer cells, which help defend against viral infections. When taken in capsule form, take 100-200 mg once daily. You can make holy basil tea by adding one teaspoon of dried herb to 2 cups of boiling water. Steep for 5-10 minutes and sip.
Although taking too much of this herb is difficult, it may not be suitable for pregnant women, those with Diabetes, or those who have blood-thinning concerns or are on medications like Coumadin (Warfarin).
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is slightly sedating, but not in a suppressive manner. It gently helps calm anxiety, insomnia, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), nervous disorders, high blood pressure, fever, and shortness of breath (caused by stress). It's the go-to antiviral for treating the herpes virus and inhibits bacterial growth.
High-quality lemon balm is known to reduce cortisol levels. Lemon balm also soothes the muscles of the intestinal lining and helps alleviate IBS symptoms, including a nervous stomach. It is anti-parasitic, reduces inflammation caused by pathogens, and conserves the body's vitamin B12. Diluted lemon balm essential oil can help to relieve a toothache (but try not to swallow much of it). Generally speaking, when consumed as a tea, there is little risk. However, capsules, powders, and tinctures require special precautions due to the potential for higher doses. Children under 12, including babies, can have diluted lemon balm tea.
To put HSV into remission, take 300 mg of lemon balm twice daily or a single 600 mg dose once daily (or as directed on the product label) during periods of exacerbated stress.
Lemon Balm can be used in topical solutions while pregnant, and drinking lemon balm tea (in moderation) is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, avoid taking lemon balm capsules, powders, and tinctures while pregnant, as they may interfere with fetal development or cause miscarriage (or both). Avoid regular use of lemon balm if you have Glaucoma, a swollen prostate, or are having surgery. Some claim that lemon balm may have a negative impact on the thyroid. However, there's no agreement on this. Still, avoid consuming lemon balm if you have a thyroid disorder until you've spoken with your doctor. Don't take lemon balm with sedatives, glaucoma medications, thyroid medications, barbiturates, or drugs that affect serotonin.
Licorice Root
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is antiviral and helps alleviate symptoms of colds and flu (including SARS-CoV-2), sore throats, bronchitis, and muscular spasms. It is anti-everything and reduces pain and healing time. You can use licorice root as a wash for HSV-1 and HSV-2. It may also lower testosterone levels in men and women.
Don't use freshly picked Licorice Root. Use only deglycyrrhizinated licorice root. The active ingredient in licorice root is glycyrrhizin, which can lead to water retention and elevated blood pressure. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice root has fewer side effects and doesn't raise blood pressure. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice root is horribly sweet, which is why it's often used in combination with other herbs when making tea and other oral medicinals.
Use only ¼ teaspoon of deglycyrrhizinated licorice root powder to 8 ounces of boiled water. Steep for 5-10 minutes, strain, and sip up to 3 cups daily, but not every day. Use deglycyrrhizinated licorice root for up to four weeks only.
Note: Avoid using deglycyrrhizinated licorice root if you have a history of Cancer in your family, ovarian cysts, are pregnant, have diabetes, cirrhosis of the liver, Hepatitis, bile problems, or respiratory mucous or obesity issues. Never give licorice root to children in any form.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) is a stimulating adaptogen that combats insomnia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Depression, and emotional instability. It helps relax the body while improving cognitive function by reducing cortisol and increasing serotonin, GABA, and other essential brain neurotransmitters. Some studies have shown that rhodiola is an immune tonic that may help fight bladder tumors. It enhances heart health and helps to balance blood sugar levels. Other studies have shown that rhodiola can inhibit cell-to-cell infection by HSV-1 and HSV-2.
There doesn't appear to be much risk in taking rhodiola, but it may cause drowsiness if you combine it with benzodiazepines, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Don't take rhodiola if you are pregnant or nursing or have an autoimmune disease.
Sage & Rhubarb
Sage cream can work just as well as Acyclovir to heal herpes lesions. When sage is combined with rhubarb, the result is even more effective. To make a cream, you begin by creating an infused oil, which can also be applied directly to lesions.
Saint John's Wort
Saint John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an antiviral and antidepressant that helps alleviate symptoms associated with herpes viruses, influenza, pain, and depression (caused by insomnia or anxiety). It treats Tetanus and is a nerve regenerator. It may help ease Post-Herpetic Neuralgia.
St. John's Wort can be used topically (by applying a drop or two of essential oil to the skin) or orally (by taking supplements or drinking tea). When taken as tea, you can drink up to 4 8-ounce cups daily.
Note: Don't use Saint John's Wort if you are severely depressed, pregnant, have AIDS, or are planning surgery (it may interfere with the anesthesia). Saint John's Wort interacts with immunosuppressants used in organ transplants. Don't take Saint John's Wort with antidepressant or antianxiety medications, or you may experience panic attacks after you stop taking your medication. Saint John's Wort can cause photosensitivity when taken for several months.
Self Heal
Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris, also known as Heal-All) has been shown to block the replication of the Herpes Simplex Virus in laboratory studies (test tubes). There are cautions to consider when taking self-heal when you're taking medications and during pregnancy.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng extract containing 0.3% eleutheroceides (Elagen), when taken orally, reduces the frequency and severity of genital herpes outbreaks.
