Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. In the 2008 edition of "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine," University of Washington professor Lawrence Corey, M.D. explains that symptoms -- painful blisters and itchy, open sores -- involve the part of the body where the virus gains entry, usually the mouth or genitals, and occasionally, other sites such the trunk or hands. There is no cure for herpes, so infected people carry the virus for the rest of their lives. Supplemental zinc may decrease the frequency, severity or duration of outbreaks.
Features
Zinc is a metal and one of the essential mineral required to support human health. Consequences of zinc deficiency include stunted growth, impaired wound healing, diarrhea and infections. The latter underscores zinc's contribution to the health of the immune system which, in turn, plays a key role in keeping viral infections such as herpes in check.
Significance
In the 2007 edition of "Integrative Medicine," University of Wisconsin professor David Rakel describes a study in which people who consumed 25 mg of zinc per day in the form of the dietary supplement, zinc sulfate, were significantly less likely to experience herpes outbreaks compared to infected patients who did not take the supplement. Among those who still developed outbreaks, most subsided within a single day, compared to six to 10 days among patients who did not take the supplement. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center cites another study in which patients who applied another type of zinc, called zinc oxide, to the surface of skin affected by cold sores every two hours experienced a reduction in the severity of symptoms and a faster recovery.
Function
Scientists don't know exactly how zinc helps fight herpes. Oral zinc probably works by enhancing the function of the immune system. Topical zinc, however, may exert a direct effect on the virus, either inhibiting its ability to reproduce and checking its ability to infect new cells. These functions dictate the duration and severity of symptoms, respectively, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Risks
MedlinePlus classifies zinc as "likely safe" for topical and oral use in doses below 40 mg per day. In rare cases, topical zinc can cause burning, stinging, itching, tingling, redness or swelling. People who experience this should wash the product off with mild soap and water and discontinue use. Severe symptoms and symptoms that persist after three days should be evaluated by a physician. Zinc nasal sprays have caused loss of ability to smell, so products that contain zinc should not be applied to the mucous membranes of the nose.
Benefits
Supplemental zinc may offer moderate benefits on the duration, severity or frequency of cold sores, especially in people who start out with low zinc stores. Zinc costs less than the prescription drugs and can be obtained without a doctor's prescription. In addition to its effects on herpes outbreaks, using zinc supplements may offer positive effects on other medical problems such as osteoporosis, acne, macular degeneration, stomach ulcers and the common cold.
Considerations
Zinc competes with other minerals -- including iron, calcium and copper -- for absorption, so patients should take it between meals and separately from other dietary supplements that contain minerals. Taking zinc together with vitamin C enhances its absorption. Zinc does not replace conventional medical treatment for herpes or any other medical problem. As with any dietary supplement, people who use zinc should share this information with all health care providers. Although herpes outbreaks usually resolve with no treatment at all, people who experience severe, frequent or prolonged outbreaks should see a doctor.
References
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 23rd Edition"; Anthony S. Fauci, M.D. et al.; 2008
- "Integrative Medicine"; David Rakel, M.D.; 2007
- MedlinePlus: Zinc
- MayoClinic.com: Zinc Supplement (Oral Route, Parenteral Route)
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Herpes
