Lysine is an essential amino acid that the body requires to fight off the herpes simplex virus that is responsible for cold sores. It appears that the herpes virus makes use of another amino acid, arginine, in order to flourish. Lysine, however, is able to combat excessive amounts of L-arginine. When you have cold sores regularly, you’re going to want to have lysine around as a staple in your house. It’s easily among the most powerful organic medications that are utilized to get rid of cold sores, and it can shorten the time it takes your cold sore to heal considerably, typically within five days or so.
Lysine is available over the counter at most health stores. You can add it to your food or use it on its own, whichever you choose. You should take lysine in between meals, ideally on an empty stomach. If you get cold sores on a regular basis, take 1,500 to 3,000 mg of lysine each day to prevent an outbreak. If you feel a cold sore starting up, take 3,000 mg a day until the sore becomes scabbed. You will have to play around with the dosage to find what works best for you. You can also apply lysine directly to the sore.
Talk to your doctor about lysine before taking it, particularly if you’re pregnant or nursing. Taking large doses of amino acids for an extended period of time is never a good idea.