The Herpes simplex type 1 virus, or HSV-1, is a virus usually acquired during childhood through direct contact of skin sores or infected secretions. Traditionally treated with medications including Acyclovir, Famvir and Valtrax, there is no cure for herpes. Treatment options aim to decrease the pain from an outbreak and help shorten the subsequent healing time.

In a study released February 2014, a more natural way of treating herpes was found with very promising results! Reported by the Kerman University of Medical Sciences in Kerman, Iran, a study measuring the effects of honey, royal jelly, and acyclovir on the HSV-1 virus showed extraordinary results. Scientists found that the antiviral properties of honey and royal jelly had noticeable inhibitory effects on HSV-1 and greatly decreased the viral load. While Acyclovir had more powerful results, these two topical options provided significant benefits without the systemic risks associated with Acyclovir.

The scientists concluded that both honey and royal jelly – completely natural products – should be considered as alternatives to Acyclovir in the treatment of herpatic lesions. According to Dr. Michelle Yagoda, expert facial plastic surgeon and ENT, having more research done on natural remedies is a progressive direction the medical field is moving towards. It is hopeful that there will be an expansion of studies done on alternative medicines as more results like these are released.