Q What is Lysine?
A Lysine is an essential amino acid needed for healthy protein formation in the body. Lysine cannot be manufactured in the body so it must be included in the diet. Where there are skin injuries such as burns, ulceration or infection, lysine is essential for the development of collagen, a tissue which is required in large quantity under the skin and in mucous membranes of the lips and mouth. Collagen production speeds the healing of skin and mucous membranes.
Q What effect does Lysine have on viruses?
A Lysine interferes with the ability of viruses to replicate or reproduce, affecting the progress of the infection.
Q What is herpes?
A Herpes is a particular type of virus. There are several different species of the herpes virus e.g. Herpes Simplex which causes cold sores on the lips and on the genitals; Herpes Zoster which causes shingles, a painful nerve disease; Epstein Barr Virus which causes chronic fatigue syndrome; and Varicella Zoster virus which causes chickenpox. In many cases these viral attacks involve deterioration of the skin or mucous membranes in some way.
Q How long does it take for Lysine to work?
A This depends on the length of the infection. For acute infections, lysine may start to take effect in a few days, for long term problems, lysine will need to be taken regularly for up to 6 weeks before results are apparent.
Q Are there any other things that can be done to reduce the infection?
A Improving the diet by increasing the intake of proteins which are a rich source of lysine – meat, fish, chicken, eggs, cheeses, yoghurt, soy, and beans - as well as decreasing caffeine, alcohol and nicotine will assist prompt recovery.
Q Can I take Lysine long term?
A Lysine can be taken safely long term to prevent the recurrence of herpes infections.