An Evidence Based Review on Oriental Medicine for the Treatment of Herpes Simplex Infections and Their Availability in Iran

Background: Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections are very common in Iran and worldwide and the risk for resistance to anti-herpetic drugs has increased recently. Alternative antiherpetic agents seem necessary to control and reduce the emergence of -resistant strains. Oriental medicine suggests some herbal options for the treatment of herpes lesions. Aim: This study reviews some of the common herbal treatments in oriental medicine for herpes and their availability in Iran. Methods: In this narrative review, information on in vitro and in vivo studies and clinical trials was searched via international databases including PubMed and SCOPUS, using herpes, herb, Oriental medicine, Chinese medicine and the names of herbs as keywords, which resulted in 45 related articles; of these, 38 entered this review. The inclusion criteria were the in vitro and in vivo studies, randomized controlled trials and reviews with acceptable levels of evidence. Information regarding those herbs in traditional Iranian medicine, their availability in Iran, and the available pharmaceutical products in this country were investigated through Persian references. Results: Among herbs suggested by Oriental herbal medicine for the treatment of herpes lesions, Melia azedarach, Aloe barbadensis, Rheum palmatum, Salvia officinalis, Melissa officinalis, Melaleuca alternifolia, Hypericum perforatum, Crataegus pinnatifida, Punica granatum and Rheum palmatum, are backed by acceptable scientific evidence, and are available in Iran. Conclusion: Considering the evidence and availability of many of Oriental herbal medicines for herpes in Iran, they can be utilized for treatment and research purposes.