October 13, 1999 – Not many people know, but lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) demonstrates remarkably effective antiviral properties against cold sore viruses (herpes simplex HSV-1) and genital herpes (HSV-2).
In a German study of 115 patients withherpes simplex HSV-1, lemon balm significantly improved symptoms on the second day of application and after 5 days the number of people without symptoms was 50% higher than in the placebo group. On the other hand, scab formation was considerably less in the experimental group than in the placebo group, indicating less cell damage.
The lemon balm used was a concentrated 70: 1 aqueous extract mixed at 1% in a cream base. Its activity is attributed to its polyphenolic compounds, including caffeic acid derivatives. Other research has shown that this balm inactivates the virus between 3 and 6 hours after application. Lemon balm also does not increase the resistance level of the virus.
According to the authors of this research, “five American studies have shown that drugs commonly used in the treatment of herpes did not have a significant effect compared to a placebo.”
To be effective, treatment must begin in the early stages of the rash. It speeds up the healing time of lesions and should be applied 2-4 times a day to the affected areas.
HealthPassport.net
References
Prevention, May 1999, Wölbling, RH, Leonhardt, K., “Local therapy of herpes simplex with dried extract from Melissa officinalis.” Phytomedicine 1994: 1, 25-31.
