Research reports

摘要

Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) cause infections of the eye and around the oral cavity, and of the genital mucous membranes, respectively. They are common human pathogens and can establish latent infections in the nervous system that can be reactivated. Treatment is via the use of acyclovir and associated compounds that interfere with viral DNA replication. Resistance to these products is increasing, particularly among immunocompromised patients. Alternative anti-herpetic treatments are being sought and so a German team (Schumacher et al., 2003) tested the essential oil of Mentha x piperita in vitro.