Herpes is caused by an infection of the herpes simplex virus, or HSV. There are two forms of herpes: oral herpes, more commonly known as cold sores, and genital herpes. There is no cure for herpes and once you contract HSV, the virus will lay dormant in your body for life. However, anti-viral medicines can help to prevent further outbreaks and lessen the severity of herpes lesions. A supplement known as lysine may help to reduce herpes outbreaks, but scientific evidence to prove it is effective is limited. Talk to your doctor before treating herpes with lysine.
Properties and Administration
Lysine is a chemical that, according to RxList, may help to stop the herpes virus from growing. It is found in a number of foods including chicken, eggs, potatoes and fish, or you can take it is as a dietary supplement. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking 1 to 3 g of lysine daily to treat an herpes outbreak, but you should get advice from your doctor about the right dose for you.
Efficacy
The results of a small pilot study carried out by B.B. Singh and colleagues, and published in the June 2005 issue of "Alternative Medicine Review" found that lysine significantly reduced the severity of oral herpes sores. However, lysine was combined with undisclosed botanicals and zinc, so it is difficult to say whether lysine was responsible for the effects seen by researchers. An article by J.G Beauman published in the October 2005 issue of "American Family Physician" notes that there is some evidence that lysine may offer some benefit as a treatment for genital herpes. However, studies evaluating its efficacy are lacking.
Side Effects and Contraindications
RxList notes that taking lysine for up to one year is likely safe, although it may cause side effects including stomach pain and diarrhea. Do not take a lysine supplement if you are pregnant or breast-feeding or if you have kidney disease. Lysine may increase the absorption of calcium, according to RxList, so avoid concomitant use of lysine and calcium.
Other Supplements
The University of Maryland Medical Center cites several other supplements that may help to prevent or heal herpes outbreaks, including propolis and zinc. UMMC notes that zinc may be effective against both oral and genital herpes, while propolis, a resin made by bees, may boost immunity and stop the herpes virus from reproducing. Some herbal supplements, including lemon balm and aloe, may also help to alleviate symptoms. Get medical advice before using dietary or herbal supplements to treat herpes.
