In a 2022 meta-analysis of 9 RCTs, topically applied honey reduced the healing time of oral herpes sores (a.k.a. cold sores) or genital herpes sores more than acyclovir (an antiviral medication; 8 days for honey, 9 days for acyclovir) and was as effective as acyclovir for pain relief.[1]
Does honey benefit herpes sores?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
A 2022 meta-analysis of 9 trials found that honey reduced the healing time for oral or genital herpes sores more than acyclovir (an antiviral) and was equally effective for pain relief.