Herpes is a viral infection characterized by painful blisters and itchy open sores. Herpes usually involves the mouth or genitals. However, writes University of Washington professor Lawrence Corey in the 2008 edition of "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine," it can actually infect almost any site on the human body, including the eyes, brain, internal organs and other sites on skin. Because there is no cure for herpes, most infections recur. Lysine is an amino acid that may prevent herpes recurrences. Your doctor can help you determine whether lysine is right for you.
Definition
Amino acids, such as lysine, serve as the precursors of protein. Among amino acids, the University of Maryland Medical Center says that lysine is considered essential because it plays a key role in collagen production, the metabolism of fat and cholesterol and, possibly, calcium absorption. Your body cannot manufacture lysine from other nutrients, so it must obtain it through the diet. Insufficient lysine intake causes symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, dizziness, poor appetite, agitation, bloodshot eyes, growth problems, anemia and infertility.
Function
While lysine is essential to humans, another amino acid, called arginine, is essential to the virus that causes herpes. In this 2006 book, "Natural Pharmacy," holistic medicine specialist Alan R. Gaby, M.D., claims that lysine opposes the effects of arginine on the herpes virus in three ways. First, lysine directly counteracts the growth-stimulating effects of arginine on the herpes virus. Second, it induces an enzyme called arginase that digests arginine so that it is no longer usable. Finally, lysine competes with arginine for absorption by infected cells, decreasing the amount of arginine that reaches the virus in the first place.
Sources
Animals store lysine in muscle, liver and milk. So, foods made from these items tend to be rich in lysine. Farm-raised animals have better quality diets than wild game, so their tissue tends to be higher in lysine. Plant sources of lysine include legumes, soybeans and brewer's yeast. All the studies on lysine and the herpes virus involve lysine from dietary supplements. You can purchase these at most grocery, drug and specialty stores.
Safety
Gaby says that lysine doses up to 6 g per day are probably safe for healthy adults, at least in the short term. He cautions that some animals fed high doses of lysine developed high cholesterol and gallstones; however, he claims, "no consistent problems have been reported in humans." Similarly, abdominal cramps and diarrhea may occur in people taking doses between 15 and 40 g per day, much higher than those recommended for herpes. Lysine has not been studied in people with kidney or liver disease, children or women who are nursing or pregnant, so its safety for these groups is not known. You should talk to your doctor before taking any dietary supplement, including lysine. Lysine does not replace conventional medical treatments for herpes or any other condition.
Effectiveness
In his book, Gaby reviewed seven studies on lysine supplements in people with herpes and concluded that lysine is probably helpful for reducing the frequency of recurrences. However, he says there is little evidence that lysine has any effect on the duration or severity of an outbreak, once it is already under way. For those who wish to try it, Gaby suggest 1 to 3 g per day by mouth every day. Dividing the doses into three equal doses taken throughout the day maximizes effectiveness.
Expert Insight
University of Wisconsin professor David Rakel, M.D. offered virtually identical recommendations in his 2007 book, "Integrative Medicine." Rakel suggested trying to increase lysine intake through whole food nutrition before turning to supplements. Rakel also advised avoiding high arginine foods like nuts, seeds, gelatin and chocolate. For all people, Rakel encouraged a healthy lifestyle, including getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, managing stress and consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
References
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 23rd Edition"; Anthony S. Fauci, M.D. et al; 2008
- "Integrative Medicine"; David Rakel, M.D.; 2007
- "Natural Pharmacy: Complete A to Z Reference to Alternative Treatments for Common Health Conditions"; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lysine
- "Alternative Medicine Reviews"; Natural Remedies for Herpes Simplex; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; December 2005
