While physicians usually prescribe Acyclovir for herpes outbreaks, a study reported in the Medical Science Monitor states that honey was 43% better for herpes on the lips and 59% better for herpes of the genitals.
Honey has long been known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties. It's a little less convenient than pills and it doesn't make the pharmaceutical companies any money, so it's not surprising that doctors don't recommend it. Nevertheless, it works better and with no side effects.
The type of honey used is important. The usual processed honey from the grocery store doesn't work as well and could even increase the infection. You want the raw honey, preferably the Manuka honey which is made from the pollen of a medicinal plant. The honey will have to be applied several times each day to keep the sore bathed in honey.
How Does Honey Treat Herpes
The total medicinal value of honey will depend on the flowers that the pollen came from, but at a minimum honey will:
- draw fluid away from your wound
- suppress microorganism growth through its high sugar content
- release low levels of hydrogen peroxide into the wound using an enzyme (glucose oxidase) that worker bees secrete into the nectar
Manuka honey is reported to be effective against over 250 strains of bacteria including:
- MRSA (methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
- MSSA (methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus)
- VRE (vancomycin-resistant enterococci)
- Helicobacter Pylori (which can cause stomach ulcers)
Other Therapies for Herpes Infections
You might want to try other natural products for herpes, some can be used in conjuction with the honey:
- Lysine (an essential amino acid)
- Vitamin C
- Aloe Vera which can also be used regularly on genital herpes to prevent outbreaks
- Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
- Resveratrol (a very potent antioxidant from grape seed)
- Garlic
- Lactoferrin (a potent antimicrobial protein found in colostrum)
Please note: The information here is not to be followed as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with your physician or primary health practitioner for information regarding your own personal health and necessary treatments.
