Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
• Key Compounds: α-pinene, Boswellic Acids, Incensole Acetate
• Mechanism:- Reduces neuroinflammation via inhibition of 5-LOX and NF-κB
pathways.- Stimulates keratinocyte regeneration and fibroblast migration.- Inhibits viral replication indirectly by modulating macrophage
activity.
• Effect: Reduces pain, swelling, and promotes skin repair.
Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica)
• Key Compounds: Cedrol, Thujopsene
• Mechanism:- Modulates nerve excitability, reduces local irritation.- Mild antiviral and antimicrobial properties against skin
pathogens.
• Effect: Helps calm nerve endings and inflammation around
lesions.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
• Key Compounds: Linalool, Linalyl Acetate
• Mechanism:- Suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α).- Inhibits HSV-1 replication in vitro (demonstrated in several lab
studies).- Reduces pain perception through GABAergic receptor activation.
• Effect: Calms itching, reduces pain, supports skin regeneration.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
• Key Compounds: Menthol, Menthone
• Mechanism:- Inhibits HSV-1 penetration into host cells (via envelope
disruption).- Creates local analgesia by activating TRPM8 receptors.- Promotes blood flow and cooling to inflamed tissue.
• Effect: Inhibits early viral replication, soothes nerve-related
burning.
Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
• Key Compounds: Cinnamaldehyde, Eugenol
• Mechanism:- Potent antiviral against enveloped viruses like HSV-1.- Disrupts lipid bilayer of viral envelope, preventing entry into
host cells.Strong antibacterial, preventing secondary skin infections.
• Effect: Halts viral spread; must be used in very low dilution due
to potency.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
• Key Compounds: Linalool, Eugenol, Methyl Chavicol
• Mechanism:- Demonstrated in vitro HSV-1 suppression.- Supports immune activation locally through lymphocyte
modulation.
• Effect: Suppresses recurrence and boosts local immune defense.
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha)
• Key Compounds: Furanodiene, Curzerene
• Mechanism:- Enhances macrophage function, aids in clearance of viral
particles.- Supports re-epithelialization and wound contraction.- Antiviral and tissue sealing properties.
• Effect: Repairs tissue damage and prevents secondary ulceration.

Carrier Oils: Grapeseed Oil + MCT Oil
• Function:- Grapeseed provides vitamin E and linoleic acid for skin
restoration.- MCT oil supports rapid dermal penetration of antiviral agents.- Both are non-comedogenic and reduce trans-epidermal
water loss.

Mechanistic Summary Table