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What Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments are used for genital herpes?

Jun 05, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) attributes genital herpes to downward accumulation of damp-heat, and treatment focuses on clearing heat and resolving dampness. Bupleurum (Chai Hu), Scutellaria (Huang Qin), Atractylodes (Shan Zhi), and Gentiana (Long Dan) are combined to clear liver heat and promote bile secretion. Plantago Seed (Che Qian Zi) and Akebia Stem (Mu Tong) clear heat and drain dampness. Angelica Sinensis (Dang Gui) activates blood circulation and cools the blood, while raw Licorice Root (Sheng Gan Cao) harmonizes the actions of all herbs. For large vesicles with erosion and exudation, Honeysuckle (Yin Hua) and Coix Seed (Sheng Yi Ren) may be added; for constipation, raw Rhubarb (Sheng Da Huang) may be included.

Healthy genital organs are essential for satisfactory sexual function. However, genital diseases not only impair sexual life but may also affect the ability to conceive and bear children. So, what traditional Chinese herbal medicines are used to treat genital herpes?

Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicines for Treating Genital Herpes

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), genital herpes is primarily caused by downward accumulation of damp-heat; therefore, the main therapeutic principle is clearing heat and resolving dampness. A commonly prescribed TCM formula for this condition is Longdan Xiegan Tang (Gentiana Decoction to Drain the Liver), which contains herbs including Gentiana scabra (Longdan), Scutellaria baicalensis (Huangqin), Gardenia jasminoides (Zhizi), Plantago asiatica (Cheqianzi), Bupleurum chinense (Chaihu), Angelica sinensis (Danggui), Rehmannia glutinosa (Shengdi), Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Gancao), and Akebia quinata (Mutong). Among these, Chaihu, Huangqin, Zhizi, and Longdan work synergistically to clear liver fire and promote bile secretion; Cheqianzi and Mutong clear heat and resolve dampness; Danggui invigorates blood circulation and cools the blood; while raw Gancao harmonizes the actions of all other herbs.

If large vesicles with erosion and exudation are present, additional herbs such as Honeysuckle (Jinyinhua) and Coix seed (Yiyiren) may be added; for constipation, raw Rheum palmatum (Dahuang) may be included. Currently, a ready-made patent medicine—Longdan Xiegan Wan (Gentiana Pills to Drain the Liver)—is also available on the market and can be used for treating genital herpes. The recommended dosage is 6–8 grams per dose, three times daily, taken with warm water.

TCM attributes genital herpes to downward accumulation of damp-heat; thus, treatment focuses on clearing heat and resolving dampness. Prevention of genital herpes: If either partner is diagnosed with genital herpes, the other partner should also receive treatment. Sexual intercourse must be avoided during the treatment period. We hope this information is helpful to you.


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