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
10
Herpes treatment
8 people found this helpful
Lysine is essential for those who suffer from herpes, preventing the virus from multiplying. After taking 1000 mg daily for three months, my herpes stopped appearing, even after colds or stress. It's been a year without any outbreaks. I recommend it to friends and family with herpes.
Read More
9
Effective supplement
4 people found this helpful
Initially sceptical, I found this supplement really effective. My cold sores are now a thing of the past. I take it during seasonal colds as a precaution, and my symptoms are much milder. Thank you, Solgar; I will continue using your products.
Read More
9
Cold sore solution
2 people found this helpful
I find this excellent for my cold sores; it clears them in 2-3 days. Solgar is a fantastic brand!
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.
Lysine is essential for those who suffer from herpes, preventing the virus from multiplying. After taking 1000 mg daily for three months, my herpes stopped appearing, even after colds or stress. It's been a year without any outbreaks. I recommend it to friends and family with herpes.
Read More
9
Effective supplement
4 people found this helpful
Initially sceptical, I found this supplement really effective. My cold sores are now a thing of the past. I take it during seasonal colds as a precaution, and my symptoms are much milder. Thank you, Solgar; I will continue using your products.
Read More
9
Cold sore solution
2 people found this helpful
I find this excellent for my cold sores; it clears them in 2-3 days. Solgar is a fantastic brand!
Read More
9
Quick recovery
2 people found this helpful
My resistance to cold sores has greatly improved, and when one does appear, recovery is much faster with reduced severity.
Read More
8
Faster healing
2 people found this helpful
At the first sign of a cold sore, I take this 2-3 times a day on an empty stomach. It helps the cold sore heal more quickly without the usual discomfort. I always keep it on hand.
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, the time it takes to see results from taking this supplement for cold sores can vary. Some users have reported seeing improvement in as little as 2-3 days when they take L-lysine at the first sign of a cold sore Read Review. For others, particularly those taking it as a preventative measure or to reduce severity, benefits may develop over a longer period. One user noticed a significant decrease in outbreaks after consistently taking 1000 mg daily for three months Read Review, while another mentioned improved resistance and faster recovery when one eventually did occur Read Review.
In summary, some users see quick relief within a few days, but consistent usage over weeks or months tends to yield better long-term results in preventing future outbreaks and speeding recovery when they occur.
The use of L-lysine as a supplement for managing cold sores has garnered considerable attention in scientific circles. A review investigating its effects found that while L-lysine could serve as a preventive measure against cold sores, it does not shorten healing time for existing lesions [1]. Furthermore, a comprehensive examination of clinical studies indicated that lower doses (less than 1 g per day) might be ineffective in preventing outbreaks, though higher dosages (over 3 g per day) showed potential for improving patient experiences with symptoms [2].
The efficacy of L-lysine is further supported by various studies that note a reduction in outbreak frequency and improved healing times for those taking the supplement. For instance, a study involving chronic sufferers found a significant decrease in lesion occurrences when supplemented with 1,000 mg of L-lysine daily, and another highlighted that 84% of participants saw preventative benefits [5], [4]. While the evidence points toward L-lysine's potential benefits, particularly in preventive roles and symptom relief, more robust studies are warranted to confirm these effects definitively.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported notable improvements in their symptoms associated with cold sores and herpes outbreaks after using L-lysine supplements. For instance, one user experienced an impressive year-long hiatus from outbreaks after taking 1000 mg daily for three months, even during stressful times or colds Read Review. Another user echoed a similar sentiment, stating that after transitioning from skepticism, their cold sores became "a thing of the past," highlighting a significant reduction in symptom severity, especially during seasonal colds Read Review.
Additionally, numerous reviews mention quicker recovery times, with one user claiming their cold sores heal much faster and with less discomfort when they take L-lysine at the first sign of an outbreak Read Review. Others have noted improved resistance to outbreaks overall, as well as a general enhancement in mouth health Read Review. However, it is important to remember that individual experiences can vary, and results may not be the same for everyone.
Users report mixed experiences when combining L-Lysine with other supplements for handling cold sores. One reviewer shared that combining L-Lysine with vitamin C and zinc has significantly improved their results, particularly in halting the growth of cold sores at the onset Read Review. This user found that the combination effectively managed their outbreaks, indicating a potentially synergistic effect when these supplements are used together.
In addition, there are reports of users noticing overall improvements in their immune response and fewer outbreaks when taking L-Lysine alongside other vitamins. One user noted experiencing fewer colds while training after taking it along with vitamins, suggesting a possible benefit from this combination Read Review. These anecdotes highlight that for some, integrating L-Lysine with other nutrients may enhance its effectiveness against cold sores and improve overall health.
The optimal dose of L-lysine for treating cold sores seems to hinge on the individual's response and health condition. Research indicates that while dosages below 1,000 mg per day are ineffective in preventing outbreaks, higher doses—specifically around 3,000 mg per day—have been associated with an enhanced experience for those suffering from cold sores [2]. Notably, a 12-month study showed that participants taking 1,000 mg daily experienced significantly fewer lesions, highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate serum lysine levels [4].
Furthermore, a larger observational study found that individuals who averaged a daily dose of approximately 936 mg reported reduced frequency of outbreaks, with many noting improved healing times and decreased severity of symptoms [5]. While anecdotal evidence is robust, rigorous trials are necessary to further solidify these findings and determine the most effective and safe dosages for long-term use in cold sore management.
9
Cold sore solution
2 people found this helpful
I find this excellent for my cold sores; it clears them in 2-3 days. Solgar is a fantastic brand!
10
Herpes treatment
8 people found this helpful
Lysine is essential for those who suffer from herpes, preventing the virus from multiplying. After taking 1000 mg daily for three months, my herpes stopped appearing, even after colds or stress. It's been a year without any outbreaks. I recommend it to friends and family with herpes.
9
Quick recovery
2 people found this helpful
My resistance to cold sores has greatly improved, and when one does appear, recovery is much faster with reduced severity.
9
Effective supplement
4 people found this helpful
Initially sceptical, I found this supplement really effective. My cold sores are now a thing of the past. I take it during seasonal colds as a precaution, and my symptoms are much milder. Thank you, Solgar; I will continue using your products.
8
Faster healing
2 people found this helpful
At the first sign of a cold sore, I take this 2-3 times a day on an empty stomach. It helps the cold sore heal more quickly without the usual discomfort. I always keep it on hand.
7.5
Mouth skin improvement
1 people found this helpful
I always keep L-lysine ready for cold sore flare-ups and find my mouth skin health improves with this supplement. I would recommend it.
9
Effective combination
1 people found this helpful
When I take lysine at the first sign of herpes, the sore doesn't grow. I combine it with vitamin C and zinc for better results. This approach has helped me significantly.
7.5
Colds reduction
1 people found this helpful
I have been drinking this supplement for a short time, and I notice fewer colds after training while taking it alongside vitamins.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.