7 Herpes Antiviral Support Options

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Natural Strategies for Managing HSV Outbreaks

Herpes antiviral support options go beyond foods, supplements and meds. Whether you’re managing HSV-1, HSV-2 or shingles, these seven options offer natural and holistic antiviral support to help reduce outbreaks.

I have a disorder of the Immune System called Primary Immunodeficiency, resulting in my struggle with Herpes, Shingles, and Epstein Barr (it’s a member of the HSV family, too) for five decades. I began treatment for the immune deficiency (CVID) in 2016. While treatment has helped me greatly, I must still manage my HSV daily by adopting an appropriate diet, using supplementation and implementing the following support techniques.

Herpes Diet & Supplement Support

The most effective way to manage herpes outbreaks is through diet. A low-arginine, grain-free diet—what I call Paleo for Herpes—helps reduce viral triggers. I outline my suggestions on a Herpes diet in this blog post on The Best and Worst Foods for Herpes, and this article addressing a low-arginine diet. Both of these links include attached Primal Diet – Modern Health podcast episodes.

Pair a proper diet with targeted antiviral supplements like L-lysine, zinc, Vitamin D, and probiotics to attack HSV viruses. Learn more about supplements for Herpes here and find my recommended products for sale in my Online Store.

Herpes Antiviral Support Options

After you’ve mastered the diet and added properly dosed supplements to your daily routine, support your body with the following options:

1. Topical Antiviral Salves

Natural antiviral creams and oils can soothe and support the skin during outbreaks. Try the following for relief. Avoid using on the face unless advised by a professional.

• Lemon Balm Salve: I have used both Urban ReLeaf Lysine & Lemon Balm Blister Soothing Gel and Wise Ways Herbals Lemon Balm Salve. Urban ReLeaf will sting at first but quickly soothes. (NOTE: I have never used these on my face.)
• Walkabout Emu Oil for both topical and internal use – listen to this Podcast to learn more. It can be taken orally or topically as facial moisturizer, vaginal moisturizer or pain salve.
• Ozonated Coconut or Olive Oil, stored cold for potency – this makes a great deodorant too, although you notice the ozone smell for a bit and the oil can stain clothing.

2. Avoid Tight Clothing & Synthetic Underwear

• Tight clothing and synthetic underwear can irritate herpes-prone areas.
• 100% cotton or silk undergarments make the best underwear for Herpes.
• Avoid thongs, rough fabrics, and friction from tight jeans.

3. Avoid Chemical Irritants

• For laundry and personal care, use non-toxic, unscented products to prevent Herpes skin irritation. Use natural soaps for laundry such as Tru Earth.
• Likewise, avoid spas – they are heavily chlorinated and also use bromines. Both are unhealthy for the Thyroid. Read more about that here.

4. Ozone Therapy for Herpes (MAH IV Treatments)

• IV Ozone Therapy, known as Major Autohemotherapy (MAH), involves infusing ozone-treated blood back into the body.
• It may help manage chronic viral infections, including herpes, by boosting oxygenation and immune function.
• Look for a medical ozone clinic, not a general wellness spa. A medical-grade ozone center should also offer Glutathione, Silver, and other antiviral support options.

5. Stress & Nervous System Support for Herpes and EBV

• Stress, anger, and anxiety can trigger herpes outbreaks by suppressing the immune system.
• Use calming herbs like Passion Flower & N3 – Relaxa. These supplements in my online store support the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing HSV outbreak frequency and intensity.
• Read my article and listen to my podcast on How Stress Triggers Herpes here.

6. Melissa (Lemon Balm) Tincture for Antiviral Support

• Internally, Lemon Balm Tincture offers both antiviral and calming effects.
• We offer an alcohol-free glycerin base for easy use. You can find Lemon Balm in the Herpes Control Supplement Pack, or found separately in both the Immune Category and the Anxiety/Sleep & Stress Category of my online store.
• Medical research supports the use of Lemon Balm Tincture for supporting herpes simplex viruses, Epstein-Barr, and shingles.

7. Sun & UV Light Precautions with Facial Herpes

• If you’re prone to facial herpes outbreaks, avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning beds, as UV radiation can trigger HSV activity.
• Use sunscreen and wear a hat if outdoors to protect your skin.

Final Thoughts

Herpes is a lifelong virus, but can be managed effectively with the right tools. Start with dietary changes, then layer in supplements, calming strategies, and topical care. Everyone’s body is different—these natural antiviral support strategies help you personalize your herpes treatment plan.

My 90-minute Herpes Relief Guide is available for purchase and walks you through the diet, supplements, and managing stress. Learn how to control HSV and then manage it for a lifetime.