Common folk remedy may be future treatment for herpes

Scientists from the UK and Spain report that a folk remedy called tansy, a flowering plant also known as mugwort, may be an effective treatment for the sexually transmitted disease herpes.

A team of scientists from the University of Greenwich and the Universidad de Oviedo have been studying tansy's antiviral properties, and discovered it has clear potential as a treatment for herpes, while also identifying the compounds in tansy responsible for this effect. Their work, announced April 14, is published in the journal Phytotherapy Research .

Tansy, Tanacetum Vulgare, has been used by many generations as an edible, herbal remedy to treat various respiratory problems, high fever, nervousness, fatigue, head ailments, ear ringing, and pains and aches. This perennial flowering plant grows all around Europe and northern regions of Asia, and is known for its antiviral, vermifuge, and insect-repelling properties.

A 2008 Moroccan study found that tansy is effective at treating hypertension and promoting relaxation, and a 2006 study discovered that tansy leaves are an effective diuretic.
 
However, scientists - who have been working with extracts of the roots and aerial parts of tansy - say more work needs to be done before relying on tansy as a treatment for herpes. And certain compounds in tansy can be toxic, so be sure to consult your physician before ingesting tansy.

Scientists have studied other herbal extracts and nutritional supplements based on claims that they help control or relieve herpes symptoms. Some of these include echinacea, propolis, the herb Prunella vulgaris, and an edible mushroom. None have been approved to treat herpes, but you can read more about them and other alternative treatments here: http://www.webmd.com/genital-herpes/alternative-treatments

For more tips on natural ways to control herpes, visit http://healingdeva.com/natural-remedies-herpes.htm

Access the study's abstract here: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.3382/abstract;jsessionid=F674E125268B36C01BBB68CA1A817966.d03t04