HSV, otherwise known as Herpes Simplex Virus, is a shockingly common virus that affects a larger part of the population than most would think. Some estimates have been as high as 80%. Not only is the virus fairly transmissible, it affects people of all ages, genders, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. So it is a very “equal opportunity” virus and many who have it have no idea how they even caught it in the first place.

How HSV expresses itself can vary greatly per person. Some may have the latent virus and never experience one of the most common symptoms – outbreaks of painful liquid filled blistering and crusting, cracking and overall inflammation and swelling of the lips and surrounding area. Some people may experience one or two flareups only to have the virus go dormant for the remainder of their life while others struggle with consistent chronic outbreaks.

Two Essential Oils Combat Lip Conditions Associated with HSV

Although there is no know way to effectively rid the body entirely of this virus, the good news is there are ways to suppress the replication severity of the viral expression, and ensure minimal discomfort and damage at the outset of a flare up.

Two essential oils that target both the symptoms of the virus and the discomfort associated with flare ups are essential oils of lemon balm (also known as Melissa Officinalis) and peppermint. Let’s start with perhaps the most well-known of these two oils. Peppermint is already commonly used in multipurpose lip balms since it is known for its soothing, cooling effect on dry or chapped lips.

It also happens to taste pretty good, and is associated with a fresh and crisp scent that is appealing to most people. In addition to these effects, peppermint also happens to be an excellent anti-inflammatory and anti-viral agent. This means is can actually help to suppress and kill the herpes virus when applied topically.

Not only that, peppermint oil is incredibly soothing on contact, and cools the burning sensation often caused by HSV on contact. So this refreshing oil provides both immediate and therapeutically effective relief from the discomfort caused by blistering, cracking and inflammation, but it also provides an actual neutralization benefit for the underlying cause of these symptoms.

Peppermint oil properties:

1.)  Antiviral – a known antiviral agent with the active components menthol, terpenes and limonene among others, which are thought to be largely responsible for it’s virus killing properties.

2.)  Antibacterial – Peppermint is also a known antibacterial agent, which means it can help kill a range of active bacterium. This can be incredibly helpful as a natural cleaner and is often why it is included in facial toners to help combat acne.

3.)  Excellent for digestion and gastrointestinal discomfort. Peppermint tea and peppermint oil are long-used remedies for a sour or upset stomach. The naturally cooling and soothing effects of this herb can help facilitate digestion and ease gas pains.

Lemon Balm – The Other HSV Powerhouse

Melissa Officinalis, or as it is more commonly known “lemon balm” is a plentiful herb that you may have even found growing wild in your own backyard. It is known for its brightly astringent lemon-like scent, but it also has grassy or green undertones. Lemon balm is most well known for its mood soothing properties, and is often recommended to be steeped as a tea to help ease anxiety and stress.

Although this herb is plentiful in the wild, it is actually difficult to press the oil for the essential oil, making the essential oil a little more on the expensive side. However, it is worth it if you are looking for a potent partner in easing recurring or stubborn HSV flare ups. Lemon balm is one of the most effective natural remedies against cold sores.

It is also extremely gentle when used in the right concentrations as a topical agent in helping reduce the severity of outbreaks. When combined with peppermint essential oil, it is nothing short of impressive in how it helps address not only the root problem of these outbreaks, but also the pain, discomfort and physical appearance of the lips during these episodes.

Lemon Balm Properties:

1.)  Antiviral properties - Specifically targeted to help kill HSV and prevent it from entering and infecting healthy cells. Probably the most effective of all the essential oils in the fight to help tame these flare ups.

2.)  Soothing and cooling topical application - This is widely known as a very soothing plant and is used in a variety of applications for helping with anxiety and stress.

3.)  Lab tested for HSV efficacy - Has demonstrated antiviral capabilities in lab studies and has even been suggested as being comparative to the efficacy of some prescription antiviral medications for this specific purpose. Topically a really helpful and effective suppressant and neutralizer of the HSV.