Special tip:

--To be effective for fighting cold sores and other lesions caused by
the herpes simplex virus, you need to use a cream-based product
containing a concentrated extract of melissa. In Germany, the melissa
cold sore cream/ointment is sold under the name Lomaherpan; in the
United States it can be found under various names, such as Herpalieve
and Herpilyn.
http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10043,00.html

http://medherb.com/Materia_Medica/Melissa_-_Topical_Treatment_for_Herpes_Simplex
_Virus.htm
Melissa: Lemon balm as a topical treatment for herpes simplex virus

by Jill Hoppe

Medical Herbalism 11(4):13,16

A 1999, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized German trial
studied the efficacy of a topical cream made from the standardized
dried leaf extract of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis, 70:1) for the
treatment of Herpes simplex labialis ("cold sores" - a form of
herpes simplex that occurs on the lips). Sixty-six patients who had at
least four episodes of herpes labialis yearly took part in the trial.
The cream was applied topically on the affected area four times daily
for five days. A significant difference in the size of the affected
area and blisters, compared to placebo was observed by day two of the
therapy. Symptoms on day two are of particular importance since
symptoms in those suffering from herpes labialis are usually most
intense at that time. The lemon balm cream shortened the healing period
and had an advantageous affect on associated symptoms such as itching,
tingling, burning, swelling, etc. The authors suggest that there exist
some indication that using lemon balm will prolong intervals between
herpes episodes. In addition, lemon balm is unlikely to make the herpes
virus resistant. (Koytchev) Note: The antiviral drug Acyclovir
(Zovirax) is often prescribed for herpes simplex infections. It
interferes with the reproduction of viral DNA, slowing the growth of
existing viruses; however, it has little effect on recurrent
infections. Scientific studies have shown Acyclovir may induce herpes
simplex virus to become resistant by interfering with the metabolism of
the virus-infected cells.