Bitter Grass, which may refer to various species such as Vernonia amygdalina (commonly called "Bitter Leaf"), has a long history of use in African traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including viral infections like herpes. The traditional basis for its use is mainly anecdotal and rooted in indigenous herbal practices, where infusions or extracts of the plant are employed for their perceived antiviral and immune-boosting properties. However, scientific studies specifically investigating the effectiveness of Bitter Grass or Bitter Leaf against herpes simplex virus (HSV) are limited and inconclusive. Some in vitro research on related species indicates general antiviral activity, but there is currently no robust clinical evidence or well-conducted trials that confirm its efficacy or safety for treating herpes in humans.

The rating of 1 reflects the fact that, while traditional use exists, scientific validation is lacking and any evidence is preliminary at best. Individuals interested in using Bitter Grass for herpes should exercise caution and consult healthcare professionals, as reliance on traditional remedies without evidence-based support may delay appropriate medical treatment.