In 1978, according to herpes researcher Christopher
Kagan, M.D: Herpes DNA uses the amino acid L-arginine
to replicate itself and form a virus. Early studies using laboratory cultures demonstrated
that L-arginine was necessary for herpes/cold sores growth. It soon became clear that another
amino acid, L-lysine, blocked the bio-availability of arginine. By 1981, Dr. Griffith
(Dr. Kagan's Colleague) demonstrated that lysine concentrations similar to those found in human blood could
support the suppression of herpes/cold sores growth in lab cultures.
In addition, Dr. Kagan stated, Several clinical studies have supported
the efficacy of lysine supplementation for helping to suppress herpes/cold
sores flare-ups. In one survey, 88% of 1,543
herpes sufferers reported benefiting from lysine therapy. More research on lysine is still
needed, says Kagan, but lysine therapy has produced some positive results.
The evidence from several double-blind studies suggests that
adequate doses of L-lysine can make herpes/cold
sores flare-ups milder and less frequent.
Lysine
probably works best when it is combined with dietary changes that restrict levels of
another amino acid, arginine. To do this, cut down on gelatin, chocolate, peanuts,
almonds and other nuts, seeds, and to a lesser extent wheat.
A double-blind placebo-controlled trial tested the efficacy of
L-lysine in preventing recurring herpes simplex. Twenty-seven individuals were given 1,000
mg of L-lysine 3 times a day for 6 months, while 25 subjects received placebo.
Those
treated with L-lysine experienced, on average, 2.4 fewer herpes/cold
sores flare-ups than the placebo
group, a significant result. The L-lysine group also experienced significantly less severe
flare-ups and shorter healing time.
Another placebo-controlled double-blind study on 41 subjects found
that 1,250 mg of L-lysine per day helped, but 624 mg did not. One study found no
benefit, but it was very small.
Foods high in L-lysine include vegetables, beans, fish, turkey, and
chicken. When taken as a supplement, a typical daily dose is 1,000 mg.
L-lysine in
supplement form has not been associated with any significant side effects.
However, high
doses of L-lysine in animals have caused gallstones and elevated cholesterol levels.
Dose and Use: Adults take one to three capsules
per day, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.
L-Lysine is best utilized when
taken on an empty stomach with juice or water. Do not take with l-arginine
supplements.
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