Dear Dr. SerVaas: Some years ago, I read in the Post about lysine helping relieve and cure shingles. Could you tell me about that treatment?
H. E. Collingridge
e-mail
Dear Reader: Since the mid-1980s, we have written about research on using lysine to treat and prevent cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. We have also published letters from Post readers who report that this inexpensive amino acid helps reduce symptoms of shingles (herpes zoster) and chronic fatigue syndrome, conditions linked to other herpesviruses.
The late Dr. Richard Griffith was a dedicated lysine researcher at Indiana University who found that an excess of arginine in the diet can lead to unsightly mouth sores because herpesviruses use it to reproduce and grow. "Lysine counteracts the effects of arginine and 'starves' viruses into dormancy," Dr. Griffith said.
Lysine has been proven to prevent the onset of herpes simplex (fever blisters) after a challenge from excessive chocolate and nuts.
Sometimes after a herpes zoster (shingles) attack, a more chronic condition known as "post-herpetic neuralgia" can develop. Lysine is less effective in treating this pain. Far better to prevent the herpes virus infection with adequate lysine, if possible.
Dr. Griffith recommended that cold-sore sufferers take 500 mg of lysine per 22 pounds of body weight daily. The treatment is safe and most effective if started when symptoms first occur.
A diet low in arginine and supplemented with lysine helps prevent future herpes outbreaks. For a list of the lysine and arginine content in common foods and to receive copies of SatEvePost articles about lysine, send a self-addressed envelope to Wendy Braun, R.N., 1100 Waterway Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46202.
E-mail Article 
Print Article 
Discuss Article
