Can Lysine Be Helpful in Treating Cold Sores?

Cold Sores: Causes and Remedies

Cold sores are painful blisters that occur on and around the lips area and are usually grouped in clusters and can take days or weeks before they disappear. They are viral infections caused by variants of herpes simplex virus (HSV) and have no known cure. Various remedies can reduce cold sore symptoms, frequency, and occurrences. The remedies may include antiviral medications, creams, and consuming Lysine supplements.

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What is Lysine?

Lysine is an essential building block for proteins (amino acids) that humans need to consume in their diet or supplements since the body cannot produce it. Lysine-rich diets are majorly sourced from meat and other protein products. Lysine has several uses and, if taken regularly, could reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

How Lysine Helps with Cold Sores

Lysine can antagonize the production of arginine, an amino acid that helps the body to produce proteins and stimulates the spread of HSV-1 virus infection. The reduction of arginine production interferes with arginine absorption in the intestines, making it unavailable for herpes virus replication, possibly reducing the recurrence rate of cold sores.

Effectiveness of Lysine for Cold Sores

One frequently asked question is how effective lysine is in treating cold sores. Conclusive research and truths are yet to be discovered on lysine actions and its overall effects in reducing cold sores infections. Despite the inconclusive nature of research, lysine is still considered a potentially effective remedy for cold sores due to its effect on arginine actions, such as slowing the pace of herpes simplex virus formation and spread. Applying lysine cream on cold sores and consuming lysine supplements can potentially speed up the healing process of cold sores.

Sources and Risks of Lysine

Lysine is sourced from protein-rich food elements and diets which include chicken, pork, soybeans, fish, beef, turkey, and eggs. Lysine consumption in moderation and recommended amounts are safe for the general body functioning and enhancing its treatment uses. However, excessive lysine consumption may be harmful to the body as it alters the functioning of some organs, such as kidney dysfunction. To reduce the risks associated with lysine intake, it is important to contact your doctor to ensure safety, particularly for those under other treatments such as kidney dialysis.

Using Lysine for Cold Sore Treatment on the Skin

Lysine stimulates collagen formation responsible for the elasticity and firmness of the skin, which reduces blisters or cold sores. The positive effects on the skin make it essential in improving overall skin health. It is recommended for one to consume 1,000mg of lysine daily in two divided doses for up to 12 months or 1,000mg taken three times daily for six months. To prevent cold sores from recurring, it is recommended that 500–1,248 mg be taken daily or 1,000mg be taken three times daily. Lysine, if consumed in excess amounts, can result in various side effects.

Other Cold Sore Treatment Options

Other than lysine consumption, an individual with cold sores can try other treatment options, including alcohol with hazel and vanilla extracts to help dry out the sores, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs for cold sores and pain-relieving, and regular application of propolis ointment might help shorten the duration of an outbreak.

Preventing Cold Sores

To help prevent cold sores and reduce symptoms, prevention strategies include avoiding kissing and skin contact with infected persons, avoiding sharing personal items, and washing your hands after touching your cold sores.

The Lowdown

Cold sores are painful fluid-filled blisters resulting from the HSV virus and are visible on and around the lips area of infected persons. Lysine is used as a potential remedy for treating cold sores due to its potential action in reducing arginine absorption in the intestines, which reduces the replication of HSV. This can help reduce recurrences of cold sores and shorten healing time. By regulating the intake of lysine supplements and exploring other treatment options, it is