One of the best nutritional treatments for the Herpes simplex virus is L-Lysine, a well-known amino acid. L-Lysine is one of the nine essential amino acids that the body needs to manufacture proteins. It is considered "essential" because the body cannot manufacture L-Lysine.

As an amino acid it is involved in tissue repair, production of hormones and enzymes and in the synthesis of collagen and bone health. Most persons get adequate L-Lysine in their diet but those who have problems with the herpes virus may need supplemental L-Lysine to keep the virus in check.

This approach originally came from research showing that lysine has anti-viral activity against the Herpes simplex virus in test tube studies. L-Lysine works to inhibit the growth of the virus by blocking its use of another amino acid - arginine.

In order for L-Lysine therapy to really be effective in preventing cold sores and outbreaks of genital herpes it is important that the diet also is low in arginine. Avoid foods high in arginine like chocolate, peanuts, almonds and other nuts, and seeds. It is also a good idea to focus on foods that are high in L-Lysine such as most vegetables, legumes, fish, turkey, and chicken. Follow these dietary guidelines and take one gram of L-Lysine three times daily with meals for maximum benefit. In one double-blind study, after 6 months, L-Lysine was rated as effective or very effective in 74% of cases compared to only 28% for those receiving the placebo.

L-Lysine also plays a role in helping the body to absorb and conserve calcium, so it may also be important for those who have a predisposition to osteoporosis.

L-Lysine should be an essential part of a nutritional protocol to prevent flare-ups of the herpes simplex virus, in whatever form it may take. Combine therapeutic dosages of L-Lysine with a low-arginine diet and extra nutritional help from vitamin C and zinc for effective control of this virus.