How to Make a Lysine Paste for Cold Sores

Lysine is an essential amino acid that helps fight the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), which causes cold sores. It works by blocking the absorption of arginine, an amino acid the virus needs to replicate. This makes lysine useful for managing cold sores.

Research shows lysine can reduce the frequency and severity of cold sore outbreaks by limiting arginine’s availability, which slows viral replication and supports the immune response. Applying lysine early during an outbreak may also shorten healing time.

Lysine is not a cure for herpes simplex virus. The virus remains dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate, causing outbreaks. Lysine should be part of a broader approach including antiviral treatments and lifestyle changes to reduce triggers like stress and sun exposure.

Ingredients for Making a Lysine Paste

You will need pure lysine powder intended for human consumption. Lysine capsules can be crushed as an alternative, but avoid products with fillers or additives that may reduce effectiveness or irritate skin.

Use water or hydrogen peroxide as the liquid base. Water is gentle, while hydrogen peroxide acts as an antiseptic and can help prevent infection if the cold sore is open. Use hydrogen peroxide cautiously, as it may cause burning or stinging.

Choose lysine powder or capsules that are free from unnecessary ingredients to avoid irritation and ensure maximum potency.

Instructions for Making and Applying the Lysine Paste

Mix 1 tablespoon of lysine powder with 2 tablespoons of water or hydrogen peroxide to form a smooth paste. The paste should be thick enough to stay on the cold sore without dripping.

Apply the paste to the entire cold sore using a Q-tip or cotton swab. Leave it on for several hours or overnight to allow the lysine to work effectively.

Store leftover paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within one week. Always use a clean applicator and wash your hands before and after application to avoid contamination.

Commercially Available Lysine Lip Balms

If you prefer a ready-made solution, we recommend the Cold Sore Cream with Lysine, Day & Night Relief Combo Pack from Curoxen.

This fast-acting, multi-symptom cold sore ointment for lips, nose, and other affected areas contains Arnica, Lemon Balm, and Olive Extract.

This cold sore cream is designed to provide the benefits of lysine in a convenient, easy-to-use format.

It can be applied directly to the cold sore, just like the homemade lysine paste.

When choosing a lysine product, look for one that contains other beneficial ingredients, such as herbs or essential oils.

These can help soothe the skin and may enhance the effectiveness of the lysine.

Additional Considerations

Lysine supplements are typically taken orally and can be a convenient way to ensure you're getting enough of this essential amino acid.

They're available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and powders, and can be found at most health food stores and online.

However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, as lysine can interact with certain medications and may cause side effects in some people.

It's also worth noting that lysine is naturally present in many foods.

Good sources include meat, fish, dairy products, legumes, and eggs.

Incorporating these foods into your diet can help ensure you're getting enough lysine.

Research suggests that maintaining a diet higher in lysine than arginine can help prevent cold sore outbreaks.

This is because the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores, requires arginine to replicate.

By consuming more lysine, you can potentially inhibit the absorption of arginine, thereby helping to prevent the virus from replicating and causing outbreaks.