We examined the effectiveness of long-term lysine supplementation for preventing cold sores, specifically in individuals with a history of frequent outbreaks. Over a 12-month period, twenty-six volunteers participated in a double-blind study, taking daily doses of 1,000 mg of lysine.
Our findings indicated that those taking lysine experienced significantly fewer lesions compared to the control group. Moreover, when participants stopped the supplementation, their outbreaks increased. Maintaining serum lysine levels above 165 nmol/ml appeared crucial for effectiveness, highlighting lysine's potential benefits in managing recurrent cold sores.
Read More
9
Lysine shows potential for herpes relief
Subjective response to lysine in the therapy of herpes simplex.
We surveyed 1,543 individuals over six months to explore the impact of lysine on herpes infections, including cold sores. Participants averaged a daily dose of 936 mg of lysine. An impressive 84% reported that this supplement either prevented recurrence or reduced the frequency of outbreaks. When comparing symptoms, 79% found them severe without lysine, while only 8% felt the same when using it. Healing times improved dramatically—90% took six to 15 days to heal without lysine, but 83% healed in five days or less with it. Overall, 88% deemed lysine an effective treatment.
Read More
4
L-lysine lacks preventive effectiveness
Lysine for Herpes Simplex Prophylaxis: A Review of the Evidence.
We explored whether L-lysine can effectively prevent cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. Two researchers conducted a thorough literature review, examining various clinical studies.
Despite the interest, our findings indicate that L-lysine supplements, particularly less than 1 g per day, are ineffective for preventing outbreaks. Interestingly, higher doses, exceeding 3 g per day, were reported to enhance patients' overall experience with the condition.
However, we believe more extended studies focusing on higher dosages are necessary for conclusive results, especially for those with specific health concerns.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Excellent immune formula
18 people found this helpful
Repeat purchase. An excellent immune formula that I have bought twice already. It helped me at the first sign of a cold. As soon as my throat started to hurt, I took three capsules before bed and felt better by morning. It contains lysine, vitamin C, calcium, propolis, and echinacea extract.
Read More
9
Immune system support
18 people found this helpful
Magic tablets! After moving to a different climate, my immune system weakened, and I fell ill every month. I tried various remedies but found no relief until I discovered these vitamins. Reducing the dose allowed me to stretch them over three months, and since January 2015, I haven’t been sick at all!
Read More
9
Miracle for cold sores
14 people found this helpful
I’ve suffered from cold sores for years and usually relied on valacyclovir. Desperate, I tried Lysine after reading positive reviews. After taking six pills for a few days, the tingling and pain disappeared, and the blisters were completely gone after five days. This will be a staple in my medicine cabinet.
We examined the effects of L-lysine, paired with botanicals and nutrients, on cold sores caused by the herpes virus. In this pilot study, 30 participants tracked symptoms like itching and soreness, revealing impressive results. By the third day, 40% experienced complete healing, which rose to 87% by day six. While most showed significant improvement, a couple did not respond as well. Importantly, the study had no reported adverse effects, showing that L-lysine could effectively ease cold sore symptoms.
Read More
9
Lysine shows potential for herpes relief
Subjective response to lysine in the therapy of herpes simplex.
We surveyed 1,543 individuals over six months to explore the impact of lysine on herpes infections, including cold sores. Participants averaged a daily dose of 936 mg of lysine. An impressive 84% reported that this supplement either prevented recurrence or reduced the frequency of outbreaks. When comparing symptoms, 79% found them severe without lysine, while only 8% felt the same when using it. Healing times improved dramatically—90% took six to 15 days to heal without lysine, but 83% healed in five days or less with it. Overall, 88% deemed lysine an effective treatment.
Read More
8
Lysine helps reduce cold sore outbreaks
Lysine as a prophylactic agent in the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex labialis.
We examined the effectiveness of long-term lysine supplementation for preventing cold sores, specifically in individuals with a history of frequent outbreaks. Over a 12-month period, twenty-six volunteers participated in a double-blind study, taking daily doses of 1,000 mg of lysine.
Our findings indicated that those taking lysine experienced significantly fewer lesions compared to the control group. Moreover, when participants stopped the supplementation, their outbreaks increased. Maintaining serum lysine levels above 165 nmol/ml appeared crucial for effectiveness, highlighting lysine's potential benefits in managing recurrent cold sores.
Read More
4
L-lysine helpful for prevention
Diet in Dermatology: Review of Diet's Influence on the Conditions of Rosacea, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Herpes Labialis, and Vitiligo.
We investigated how dietary changes and supplements affect skin conditions, focusing on cold sores. The review highlighted L-lysine’s benefits as a preventive measure, which may help ward off outbreaks. However, we found that it doesn't shorten the healing time of existing lesions. While there's plenty of anecdotal support, rigorous evidence remains limited for many dietary interventions in treating skin issues. Understanding these nutritional influences can guide us toward effective management options for cold sores.
Read More
4
L-lysine lacks preventive effectiveness
Lysine for Herpes Simplex Prophylaxis: A Review of the Evidence.
We explored whether L-lysine can effectively prevent cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. Two researchers conducted a thorough literature review, examining various clinical studies.
Despite the interest, our findings indicate that L-lysine supplements, particularly less than 1 g per day, are ineffective for preventing outbreaks. Interestingly, higher doses, exceeding 3 g per day, were reported to enhance patients' overall experience with the condition.
However, we believe more extended studies focusing on higher dosages are necessary for conclusive results, especially for those with specific health concerns.
Repeat purchase. An excellent immune formula that I have bought twice already. It helped me at the first sign of a cold. As soon as my throat started to hurt, I took three capsules before bed and felt better by morning. It contains lysine, vitamin C, calcium, propolis, and echinacea extract.
Read More
9
Immune system support
18 people found this helpful
Magic tablets! After moving to a different climate, my immune system weakened, and I fell ill every month. I tried various remedies but found no relief until I discovered these vitamins. Reducing the dose allowed me to stretch them over three months, and since January 2015, I haven’t been sick at all!
Read More
9
Miracle for cold sores
14 people found this helpful
I’ve suffered from cold sores for years and usually relied on valacyclovir. Desperate, I tried Lysine after reading positive reviews. After taking six pills for a few days, the tingling and pain disappeared, and the blisters were completely gone after five days. This will be a staple in my medicine cabinet.
Read More
9
Miracle cure
7 people found this helpful
This drug is excellent! I’ve taken three tablets daily for two months and have forgotten what cold sores are like. My relapses, which used to occur twice a month, ceased, and I’ve managed to cure a cold before it developed. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Read More
9
Cold-free for a year
5 people found this helpful
Loved this product! I took three tablets daily for a month and didn’t catch a cold for an entire year. I highly recommend it during the autumn virus season. The smell of garlic is subtle.
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips, although they can also occur in other areas of the face. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), primarily HSV-1, and are highly contagious. The initial outbreak may be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a general feeling of malaise. Once infected, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate, leading to recurring outbreaks, often triggered by stress, illness, or exposure to sunlight.
Treatment options for cold sores often focus on alleviating symptoms and speeding up healing. Over-the-counter creams containing antiviral medication like docosanol can help reduce the duration of an outbreak when applied early on. Prescription medications may be recommended for more severe cases. Home remedies, such as applying ice, using aloe vera, or taking lysine supplements, may also offer some relief. Prevention strategies include avoiding known triggers and practicing good hygiene, like not sharing utensils or personal items with infected individuals.
L-Lysine is an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions. Unlike some amino acids that can be synthesized by the body, L-Lysine must be obtained through diet or supplementation. It is particularly important for protein synthesis, hormone production, and the absorption of calcium. Good dietary sources of L-Lysine include meat, fish, dairy products, eggs, and certain plant sources such as beans and legumes. Athletes and individuals looking to support muscle recovery and growth often consider L-Lysine supplements.
In addition to its role in enhancing muscle recovery, L-Lysine is also often touted for its potential benefits in supporting immune function and combating cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. Some studies suggest that L-Lysine may help reduce the frequency and severity of these outbreaks. However, it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure it aligns with your health needs.
L-lysine is an amino acid that some studies suggest may help reduce the frequency and severity of cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. While it’s not a guaranteed cure, some individuals find that taking L-lysine supplements or increasing dietary sources of the amino acid can help minimize outbreaks. It is believed that L-lysine works by inhibiting the replication of the virus, thus potentially shortening the duration of an outbreak or decreasing its occurrence altogether.
However, it's important to note that results can vary from person to person. While some users report positive outcomes, scientific evidence is mixed; thus, people should consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are on other medications. Incorporating a balanced diet rich in L-lysine—found in foods like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy—may also provide benefits alongside or in place of supplements.
Based on user reviews, individuals taking this supplement for cold sores typically begin to see results within a matter of days. For instance, one user reported that after taking six pills for a few days, the tingling and pain associated with their cold sore disappeared, and the blisters were completely gone after five days Read Review. Another user indicated that they take extra doses at the first signs of a cold, and their symptoms typically resolve within three days Read Review.
Moreover, long-term users of the supplement have expressed that consistent use over time has significantly reduced the frequency of cold sore outbreaks. For example, one user noted that after using the product for a year, their outbreaks were half as frequent and much smaller Read Review. Overall, while some users experience relief within days, others recommend maintaining a regular intake for ongoing prevention and management of cold sores.
When it comes to using L-lysine as a supplement for cold sores, research presents a mixed bag of findings. Numerous studies point to L-lysine's potential in preventing outbreaks, especially in individuals prone to recurrent cold sores. For instance, a study identified that participants taking daily doses of 1,000 mg of L-lysine experienced significantly fewer lesions compared to those on a placebo, suggesting that maintaining adequate lysine levels might be beneficial for managing frequent outbreaks [4]. Another larger survey reported that 84% of participants noted either prevention of recurrence or reduced outbreak frequency when supplementing with L-lysine, highlighting its positive impact on symptoms and healing times [5].
However, the effectiveness of L-lysine is somewhat contingent on dosage and individualized response. While higher doses, exceeding 3g daily, seem to enhance experiences with the condition, lower doses (under 1g) may not yield the same preventive benefits [2]. Interestingly, while L-lysine appears effective in reducing the frequency of outbreaks, it does not tend to shorten the healing time of existing lesions [1]. Therefore, while L-lysine shows promise as a preventive measure against cold sores, its efficacy can vary widely among individuals, and further research is needed to establish definitive dosage and treatment guidelines.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in managing their cold sores and overall immune health after incorporating this supplement into their routine. Some users noted that they could prevent cold sore outbreaks entirely by taking additional doses at the first sign of symptoms. For instance, one user recounted taking six tablets daily at the onset of a cold sore and never experiencing a full outbreak Read Review. Another mentioned that after a year of consistent use, their outbreaks became half as frequent and considerably smaller Read Review.
Moreover, long-term users shared that they enjoy significant relief from cold symptoms, with one stating they hadn't fallen ill for an entire year after starting the supplement Read Review. Similarly, another user described feeling a dramatic boost in immunity against colds after integrating the supplement into their regimen Read Review. While individual results can vary, the consensus indicates that many find this product effective for both cold sore management and supporting overall immune health.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining this supplement with other remedies for handling cold sores. For instance, one reviewer highlighted the practice of taking additional doses of the supplement at the first signs of an outbreak, which led to rapid resolution of symptoms within three days Read Review. Another user mentioned using topical calendula cream alongside the supplement, taking two tablets per hour at the onset of tingling, which they found effective in managing their cold sore symptoms Read Review.
Additionally, several users shared success stories of complementing the supplement with lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding arginine-rich foods, to further suppress the frequency of outbreaks Read Review. One reviewer even noted that they took the supplement alongside another vitamin for a sore throat, which helped them recover quickly Read Review. This suggests that many individuals find that a multi-faceted approach, including both this supplement and other complementary treatments, can enhance overall effectiveness in managing cold sore outbreaks and improving immune health.
When considering L-lysine for treating cold sores, research suggests that a daily dose exceeding 3 grams may provide the optimal benefit. One study indicated that higher doses, particularly those above this threshold, could enhance the overall experience for individuals struggling with cold sores, even while lower doses (less than 1 gram per day) were found to be ineffective for preventing outbreaks [2]. Another investigation noted that maintaining serum lysine levels above 165 nmol/ml is crucial for individuals with a history of recurrent outbreaks, making higher dosage strategies more relevant [4].
Although L-lysine has been shown to help prevent recurrences for many users—where up to 84% reported reduced outbreak frequency when averaging around 936 mg daily—it is clear that individualized approaches using higher dosages may yield better results for some patients [5]. While the supplement has demonstrated efficacy in some studies, particularly in reducing symptoms during outbreaks and healing times, more extensive and rigorous research is needed to reach conclusive recommendations on its use and ideal dosing [1].
9
Miracle for cold sores
14 people found this helpful
I’ve suffered from cold sores for years and usually relied on valacyclovir. Desperate, I tried Lysine after reading positive reviews. After taking six pills for a few days, the tingling and pain disappeared, and the blisters were completely gone after five days. This will be a staple in my medicine cabinet.
10
Rapid relief
3 people found this helpful
At the first signs of a cold or cold sores, we take extra doses and it typically resolves within three days, greatly reducing discomfort.
9
Reduced outbreaks
4 people found this helpful
I've struggled with cold sores since childhood and have tried countless remedies. However, after using this formula for a year, I see significant improvement. My outbreaks are half as frequent and much smaller. My partner caught colds, but I’ve stayed healthy. I can’t live without it now.
9
Quick results
2 people found this helpful
I take six tablets daily at the onset of a cold sore, and it never develops. This has been wonderful!
9
Cold-free for a year
5 people found this helpful
Loved this product! I took three tablets daily for a month and didn’t catch a cold for an entire year. I highly recommend it during the autumn virus season. The smell of garlic is subtle.
9
Essential for immunity
1 people found this helpful
Best supplement ever! I can't live without it! Since starting it, after experiencing Covid, my immune system has been strong, and I haven’t had any illness.
9
Effective treatment
2 people found this helpful
Very effective at treating cold sores. I take two tablets per hour when I sense the initial tingling of a cold sore and continue until healing begins. I also use topical calendula cream. I avoid arginine-rich foods (like nuts) to reduce cold sore frequency, as lysine and arginine can counteract each other in skin healing.
9
Reduces cold sores
2 people found this helpful
Since taking this for three years, I hardly get cold sores anymore and feel it helps me avoid illness overall. I also reduced l-arginine-rich foods to help suppress HSV. This is a vital supplement for me.
9
Magic for colds
1 people found this helpful
This stuff is magic! When I sense a sore throat or cold developing, I take it twice a day alongside another supplement and feel back to normal. It’s essential for cold and flu season!
8
Lysine helps reduce cold sore outbreaks
Lysine as a prophylactic agent in the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex labialis.
We examined the effectiveness of long-term lysine supplementation for preventing cold sores, specifically in individuals with a history of frequent outbreaks. Over a 12-month period, twenty-six volunteers participated in a double-blind study, taking daily doses of 1,000 mg of lysine.
Our findings indicated that those taking lysine experienced significantly fewer lesions compared to the control group. Moreover, when participants stopped the supplementation, their outbreaks increased. Maintaining serum lysine levels above 165 nmol/ml appeared crucial for effectiveness, highlighting lysine's potential benefits in managing recurrent cold sores.
9
Lysine shows potential for herpes relief
Subjective response to lysine in the therapy of herpes simplex.
We surveyed 1,543 individuals over six months to explore the impact of lysine on herpes infections, including cold sores. Participants averaged a daily dose of 936 mg of lysine. An impressive 84% reported that this supplement either prevented recurrence or reduced the frequency of outbreaks. When comparing symptoms, 79% found them severe without lysine, while only 8% felt the same when using it. Healing times improved dramatically—90% took six to 15 days to heal without lysine, but 83% healed in five days or less with it. Overall, 88% deemed lysine an effective treatment.
4
L-lysine lacks preventive effectiveness
Lysine for Herpes Simplex Prophylaxis: A Review of the Evidence.
We explored whether L-lysine can effectively prevent cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. Two researchers conducted a thorough literature review, examining various clinical studies.
Despite the interest, our findings indicate that L-lysine supplements, particularly less than 1 g per day, are ineffective for preventing outbreaks. Interestingly, higher doses, exceeding 3 g per day, were reported to enhance patients' overall experience with the condition.
However, we believe more extended studies focusing on higher dosages are necessary for conclusive results, especially for those with specific health concerns.
4
L-lysine helpful for prevention
Diet in Dermatology: Review of Diet's Influence on the Conditions of Rosacea, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Herpes Labialis, and Vitiligo.
We investigated how dietary changes and supplements affect skin conditions, focusing on cold sores. The review highlighted L-lysine’s benefits as a preventive measure, which may help ward off outbreaks. However, we found that it doesn't shorten the healing time of existing lesions. While there's plenty of anecdotal support, rigorous evidence remains limited for many dietary interventions in treating skin issues. Understanding these nutritional influences can guide us toward effective management options for cold sores.
References
Jamgochian M, Alamgir M, Rao B. Diet in Dermatology: Review of Diet's Influence on the Conditions of Rosacea, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Herpes Labialis, and Vitiligo. Am J Lifestyle Med. 2023;17:152. doi:10.1177/15598276211026592
Mailoo VJ, Rampes S. Lysine for Herpes Simplex Prophylaxis: A Review of the Evidence. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2017;16:42.
Singh BB, Udani J, Vinjamury SP, Der-Martirosian C, Gandhi S, et al. Safety and effectiveness of an L-lysine, zinc, and herbal-based product on the treatment of facial and circumoral herpes. Altern Med Rev. 2005;10:123.
Thein DJ, Hurt WC. Lysine as a prophylactic agent in the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex labialis. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol. 1984;58:659.
Walsh DE, Griffith RS, Behforooz A. Subjective response to lysine in the therapy of herpes simplex. J Antimicrob Chemother. 1983;12:489.
Milman N, Scheibel J, Jessen O. Lysine prophylaxis in recurrent herpes simplex labialis: a double-blind, controlled crossover study. Acta Derm Venereol. 1980;60:85.