Why Is Lysine Good for Cold Sores

There is no denying that cold sores can be unsightly especially at its worst state. These sores manifest as groups or clusters of blisters that are relatively small in size. These blisters may be located at the lip area and around the mouth. Just like any blisters, it may undergo inflammation and break open to release clear fluids. Afterwards, scab or leathery skin may develop. The blister may last for many days.

The Cause

The main pathogen of cold sores is the herpes simplex virus. While herpes are commonly associated with sexually transmitted infections, cold sores are not limited to intimate encounters. The herpes virus can enter the body if there is a break in the skin. If a person accidentally touched the saliva of the affected person or secretions from the cold sores, he or she may potentially contract the infection.

How Lysine can treat Cold Sores

Lysine is an essential amino acid that should be obtained from external source because the body cannot produce it. Lysine has many functions such as producing collagen, bone formation, and maintaining the integrity of the skin. But recent studies show the effectiveness of lysine as treatment for skin diseases. A study made in Southern California University of Health Sciences proved that lysine has an effectiveness of 87 percent. Because of the mechanism and function of lysine in the body, increasing its level during cold sores will definitely make a marked difference in treating the viral infection.

Benefits of Lysine

There are different advantages when one will use lysine as a means for treating the sores. These advantages are the following.

Natural - lysine can readily be obtained through eating meat products, fruits, and vegetables. It is naturally occurring in food so it will not be hard to find this type of compound. Lysine is one of the many types of amino acid which is the building blocks of protein. Having lysine in one's diet, including other essential and non-essential amino acids, healing can be faster and more effective.

Prevents future flare-ups - it is important to note that once the herpes virus enters the body, it will be there for good. Even if it is asymptomatic most of the time, herpes simplex will resurface every once in a while when sufficient conditions are met such as compromised immune system. Increased level of lysine can suppress flare-ups.

Available in drug form - lysine can now be bought from the pharmacist. Lysine topical cream can be applied if blisters start to show-up. In addition to this, lysine comes as oral supplements that can be taken daily to maintain therapeutic level of lysine.

Lysine cold sore treatment is one of the most effective means of managing cold sores. Reading more information about lysine cold sore will be a wise step in discovering its healing wonders.

View the original article here