Antiviral Herbs & Spices / HSV REMEDY RECIPES

Antiviral Herbs & Spices

Herbs can help reduce stress, heal the body from various ailments (including those caused by viruses and bacteria), and restore balance. Herbal adaptogens help support your immune system. Some herbs work best for specific conditions, such as fever, respiratory illness, or digestive complaints, while others work better as preventatives.

The following information briefly introduces herbalism and how you might use herbs to protect and heal your mind, body, and spirit.

The Benefits of Using Adaptogenic Herbs

Adaptogenic herbs help your body adapt to ongoing and chronic stress and adjust its functions to your needs, improving your health and wellness and keeping your body in balance. For example, adaptogens nourish and support your adrenal glands, helping manage neurotransmitter and hormonal responses to stress and easing anxiety and fatigue. Unlike popular Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulants that jolt and crash you, they work gently.

Can Anyone Use Herbal Adaptogens?

There are instances where you are better off avoiding specific herbal adaptogens. For example, if you have an autoimmune disorder, you'll want to avoid taking herbal adaptogens that are immunostimulatory, such as echinacea, as these could worsen your symptoms. Instead, you'll want to focus on herbs that can help reduce stress and calm your mind and body, such as lemon balm. There are four categories of herbal adaptogens. I've listed a few in each category below.

Normalizers (immune amphoteric): American ginseng, ashwagandha, Asian ginseng, cordyceps, holy basil (tulsi, jiaogulan, licorice, reishi (mushroom), rhodiola, schisandra, and shilajit
Nourishers & Stimulators: Eleuthero, codonopsis, prince seng, rhaponticum, and shatavari
Adaptogens with Antibacterial & Antimicrobials: Holy basil (tulsi), licorice, schisandra, and shatavari
Antivirals: Holy basil (Tulsi), licorice, reishi, lemon balm (melissa targets herpes), and rhodiola.

Some herbs aren't adaptogens but have immunological activity and anti-inflammatory properties that can also inhibit excessive immune responses.

Boswellia (NOT to be taken internally)
Cinnamon
Cordyceps (a systemic adaptogenic mushroom that boosts the immune system and cellular energy)
Gotu kola
Sarsaparilla
Turmeric

While some herbs are universal and may work for a specific symptom or condition for most people most of the time, such as chamomile or lavender (to relax) or peppermint or ground fennel (for soothing digestive complaints), most herbs are best selected and used with others for a synergistic effect based on your symptoms and constitution.

Additionally, when coexisting with the herpes virus, you might think that an antiviral herb would be the appropriate choice. However, this isn't always so. For example, suppose you suffer from chronic stress or take an antiviral prescription medication. In that case, you might be better off using an herbal adaptogen (or a combination of herbs) to help reduce the adverse effects of stress. Herbs that relax the body can help reduce the chance of outbreaks that stress would otherwise trigger.

Note: Just because an herb is natural doesn't mean there are no side effects. Please research any possible adverse reactions before trying any new herb or spice. When in doubt, use the Interactions Checker at Drugs.com.

Common Herbal Adaptogens Containing Antiviral Properties

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is adaptogenic, has antiviral properties, helps boost your immune system, and supports the adrenal glands. Studies show 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 burnout and begin to damage your body.

Ashwagandha may be beneficial in easing symptoms of nervousness, Fibromyalgia Syndrome, Hypothyroidism, Restless Leg Syndrome, and muscle pain. It's best to take ashwagandha in the evening before bedtime. Infuse a teaspoon of dried herb in one cup of warm milk containing cocoa nibs. You can add raw honey to sweeten things up. Don't use ashwagandha root while pregnant because it may cause miscarriage.

Don't use ashwagandha if you have problems 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 supports 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 increase white blood cell counts and restore immune function after immunosuppressive therapy. Astragalus is also a tonic to the heart, kidneys, liver, lungs, intestines, and lymph system. It may also help against hay fever, toxins, joint pain, sugar imbalances, and cold and flu viruses. It contains antiviral properties that target cold sores (HSV-1) and the Epstein-Barr Virus.

Side effects include rash, runny nose, and upset stomach, but these are uncommon. Astragalus could worsen fevers and certain infections. Because of this, never take this herb if you have an acute infection. 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 with organ transplants. It may also enhance the potency of Interferon (a drug). If you sweat easily, don't use astragalus in herbal blends or at all.

For tea, add 1 tablespoon of dried, chopped astragalus to 1 cup of boiling water and steep for 10 minutes before straining and drinking. To make a decoction, add one tablespoon to eight ounces of water in a covered pot, simmer (don't boil) for twenty 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 experiencing frequent stress-related symptoms. Catnip is part of the mint family and is excellent for calming the body, relieving stomach upset, all-over body aches and pains, and reducing fever. Catnip is safe to drink every day without taking a break. 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

Elderberries are 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 against cold sores and genital herpes. But before you run out and chop off branches, you must 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. Also, the plant contains 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, so it's best to strain your berries well when making juices and syrups. You shouldn't use elderberry if you are under 18, pregnant, or nursing.

Echinacea

Echinacea (echinacea angustifolia) can boost the immune system when used with other antiviral herbs. Echinacea is an immunostimulant with some antimicrobial properties and is high in antioxidants. While echinacea can boost the immune system, it has no direct antiviral effect on its own. Additionally, echinacea is a periodic supplement, and you should cycle it. 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. Roughly 7% of children develop a rash, which could be an allergic reaction. Some echinacea products are tainted with arsenic, lead, or selenium, so purchase wisely. While selenium can help combat herpes, too much could pose a problem.

Avoid echinacea if you have an autoimmune disorder, Leukemia, Lupus, Leukosis, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), AIDS, Tuberculosis, or Rheumatoid Arthritis. Echinacea can lower your white blood cell count 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 and more frequent and severe infections.

Holy Basil

Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) is immune-boosting and antiviral. 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 boosts immunity by increasing helper T and killer cells to defend against viral infection. 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 kind of way. It gently helps calm anxiety, insomnia, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), nervous system dysregulation, high blood pressure, fever, and shortness of breath (caused by stress). It's the go-to antiviral for combating the herpes virus and inhibits bacterial growth.

High-quality lemon balm is known to reduce cortisol levels. Lemon balm also calms the muscles of the intestinal lining and helps calm the nervous stomach and symptoms of IBS. It is anti-parasitic, reduces inflammation from pathogens, and conserves the body's vitamin B-12. Diluted lemon balm essential oil can help to relieve a toothache (but try not to swallow much of it). Generally speaking, when consumed as tea, there is little risk. However, capsules, powder, and tinctures warrant caution due to higher doses. Children under 12, including babies, can have diluted lemon balm tea.

To reduce HSV flares, take 300 mg of lemon balm twice daily, or a single 600 mg dose once daily (or as directed on your 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 safe when pregnant and breastfeeding. However, avoid taking lemon balm capsules, powders, and tinctures while pregnant, as it 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 say lemon balm may negatively affect 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 relieve colds, the flu (including SARS-CoV-2), sore throats, bronchitis, and muscle 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 reduce testosterone levels in men and women.

Don't use freshly picked licorice root. Use only deglycyrrhizinated licorice root. The active substance in licorice root is glycyrrhizin, which can cause water retention and high blood pressure. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice root has fewer side effects and doesn't contribute to high blood pressure.

Deglycyrrhizinated licorice root is horribly sweet, so it's often paired 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 4 weeks.

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 issues, or obesity issues. Never give any form of licorice root to children.

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 neurotransmitters in the brain. Some studies suggest that rhodiola is an immune tonic that helps fight bladder tumors. It enhances heart health and helps to balance blood sugar levels. Other studies show that rhodiola can block cell-to-cell infection in 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.

St. John's Wort

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an antiviral and antidepressant that helps fight herpes viruses and influenza, relieve pain, and treat depression (caused by insomnia or fear). It treats Tetanus and is a nerve regenerator. It may help ease Postherpetic neuralgia. St. John's Wort can be used topically (a drop or two of essential oil applied to the skin) or by mouth (as a supplement or in tea). When taken as tea, you can drink up to 4 8-ounce cups daily.

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). St. John's Wort interferes with immunosuppressants used after organ transplants. Don't take Saint John's Wort with antidepressants 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 extended periods.

Self Heal

Self Heal (Prunella vulgaris, also known as Heal All) also blocks replication of the Herpes Simplex Virus in lab studies (in test tubes). There are cautions when you're taking medications and during pregnancy.

Herbal Antibiotics

Herbal antibiotics can help reduce the chance of a secondary infection during a herpes outbreak. Yes, herpes lesions can become infected by harmful bacteria, which can extend the normal healing time of an outbreak. How so? Dental problems or respiratory illnesses may cause cold sores to become infected, and poor hygiene below the waist (intentional or not) can allow harmful bacteria to infect genital herpes lesions. Using antibacterial herbs in oils, ointments, and compresses can help to protect against secondary infections.

Foods and herbs known for their antibacterial properties are echinacea, cinnamon, oil of oregano, lemon balm, wormwood, red thyme, garlic, onion, myrrh (not to be ingested), Indian barberry root extract, lemon juice, virgin coconut oil, grapefruit seed extract, pau d' arco, tea tree oil, frankincense, aloe vera gel, clove, fermented foods, and neem. Neem kills MRSA topical infections within an hour.

Herbs that help boost antibacterial effects are turmeric, cayenne, goldenseal, olive leaf extract (also good against Epstein-Barr Virus), and tea tree oil.

Digestive enzymes, prebiotics and probiotics, minerals (calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper), vitamins A, B-12, D3, E, and K, and a diet low in carbohydrates (restrict grains, starches, and some legumes) all help to rid the body of harmful bacteria, feed good bacteria, and bring better balance to your microbiome.

Anti-Inflammatory & Pain-Relieving Herbs

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel (acemannan) is a complex polysaccharide found in the inner leaf gel of the aloe plant, which contains many nutritional qualities and is immensely responsible for all the health benefits that the aloe vera plant provides. Scientific research has shown that aloe vera gel is helpful to the immune and digestive systems. You can use aloe vera gel to soothe skin complaints, such as itchy rashes, sunburn, vaginal complaints, and hemorrhoids. Just be sure your topical gel doesn't contain alcohol (ouch!). You can also take capsules to help ease bladder pain.

Birch Bark

Birch bark is anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving. When applied topically, birch bark helps ease muscle pain. Use the fresh, wet inner bark against the skin. Birch leaf is usually used in medicinal preparations, such as tea.

Anyone sensitive to salicylates or Aspirin should avoid Birch bark. Don't use Birch bark if you are on blood-thinning medication, are elderly, pregnant, or nursing. Also, avoid using Birch bark essential oil, which can be toxic in minute amounts.

Cannabis (Marijuana/Hemp)

I'm not a cannabis expert, not by a long shot. After I gave birth to my daughter, I became highly allergic to it, so I don't tend to research cannabis remedies. Does it work for pain? Yes. But here's the thing. Cannabis labels are confusing, at best. Here's what you need to know.

Hemp (cannabis sativa) and marijuana are the same species (cannabis). There's no scientific difference between hemp and marijuana except for how much cannabinoid they contain. Not all cannabis contains THC (the chemical that gets you high). The term "Hemp" is used when the cannabis contains 0.3 percent or less. For example, the cannabis oil found at Whole Foods Market is a food oil and has no THC in it. Then there are spectrums. For example, Hemp Full Spectrum and CBD Full Spectrum contain more than 0.3% THC, while the Broad Spectrum contains no THC.

You don't have to use a brand containing THC to ease pain. It's not the THC that does that. It's cannabidiol, which you can take internally in the form of a supplement or apply topically as a cream to ease neurodegenerative problems and pain.

Cloves

Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) relieve nervous irritability. When applied topically, cloves also help alleviate pain. While cloves have antimicrobial and antiviral properties (as do many spices), they are best known for relieving tooth pain. When used this way, you can gently bite down on a whole clove. However, when applying clove to the skin, the preferred method is to use clove essential oil. To avoid stinging or burning, dilute clove essential oil before applying topically. A little goes a long way. Cloves also add chai flavor to beverages.

Calendula

Calendula (marigold) is a member of the daisy family. Calendula has some antiviral properties, but it is best known for wound healing and may seal an infection when applied topically.

You can make tea from dried calendula leaves and apply fresh leaves topically to relieve the pain of blisters and hemorrhoids. Add one heaping teaspoon of dried calendula leaves to 8 ounces of boiling water. Steep for at least 3 minutes, then strain. Allow it to cool and apply it to the skin. You can also drink calendula tea made from petals. It's full of antioxidants. You can use calendula oil in many pain-relieving formulas.

Calendula shouldn't be used in early pregnancy and may cause Atopic Dermatitis in some people.

Turmeric Root

Turmeric root is anti-inflammatory, and its active ingredient is curcumin. Turmeric root is often used in teas, while curcumin is available as a supplement. Turmeric is also available in capsule form and is usually paired with a bit of black pepper to enhance bioavailability. However, more bioavailable brands no longer add it. I add pepper, ginger, and other ingredients to my truly delicious and soothing anti-inflammatory turmeric tea recipe (in the next chapter under Medicinal Teas). Turmeric can slightly lower blood sugar. If you are on medication for Diabetes, please talk to your doctor before adding it to your wellness regimen.

Willow Bark

Willow bark is anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving. However, you should avoid Willow bark if you're sensitive to salicylates or salicin made from Aspirin. Willow bark can be taken as a tea (3-4 times daily), as capsules (a suggested dosage is 225 mg of bark four times daily, or as directed on the label), or infused in carrier oils for topical application to relieve pain. When taken as tea, 1-2 cups are considered equivalent to taking low-dose Aspirin, which many doctors recommend for heart attack prevention.

Don't use Willow bark if you take blood-thinning medication, are elderly, pregnant, or nursing. Willow bark shouldn't be used internally for longer than twelve weeks. I provide instructions for making Willow bark tea in the pages that follow.

How to Hang Dry Herbs

After being picked, rinsed, and towel-blotted dry, simply place the herbs in a paper or mesh bag to air-dry. Or, if herbs are long enough, tie a string around small bunches and hang dry. You can find videos on YouTube.com that provide detailed instructions.

How to Store Dried Herbs & Flowers

Dried herbs can be stored in capped, dark glass jars in a cool place. Fresh herbs can be refrigerated or frozen in closed containers or Ziplock freezer bags. However, flowers and leaves should be used within 2-3 days. Roots, bark, and berries will last a few weeks.

Adding Herbs to Meals & Beverages

While standard culinary measurements don't come close to total dosage, the herbs will still provide your immune system with additional support. For example, you can add lemon balm to chicken, fish, pesto, roasted potatoes, salad dressing, punch, cookies, and cake.

Herbs That Can Potentially Harm the Kidneys & Liver

Aloe vera, black cohosh, cascara, comfrey, ephedra, horsetail, licorice, nettle, turmeric, and wormwood are herbs that can be harmful to the kidneys and liver with long-term use.

Suggested Classes

If you'd like to study herbs (and gain a certificate for your efforts), I suggest The Herbal Academy or Lost Skills Academy. Another excellent resource is Learning Herbs. I'm not an affiliate, but I've taken excellent classes from all three.