Cold Sore Supplements

Cold Sores are caused by an enveloped virus called Herpes Simplex Type 1. Around 90% of people are infected with this virus, which persists for life. Because it's an enveloped virus, it is also termed an opportunistic infection. This indicates that when the immune system becomes suppressed—which may occur during an infection such as the common cold—the enveloped virus becomes active.

Anyone who has a compromised immune system is prone to cold sores. One of the factors that can lower the immune systems activity is a hormoen called cortisol, which is often triggered by stress. Other factors that contribute to poor immunity are excessive sunlight exposure, poor diet, lack of exercise and irregular sleeping patterns.

High dietary arginine levels have also been linked to cold sore recurrence. Foods rich in arginine can be avoided in excess, which whould help to reduce the severity of the cold sore. Arginine rich foods include pumpkin seeds, peanuts, turkey, pork and soyabeans.

Some of the most helpful supplements for cold sore infections are those that support the immune system, and those that directly have an anti-viral effect. Interestingly, some of the most powerful natural anti-viral compounds are the minerals zinc and iodine. Additionally, the amino acid lysine directly slows replication of the Herpes Simplex Type 1 virus.

Lysine, zinc and iodine should help to suppress viral replication, which allows your immune system more time to get the infection under control. This is how a fever works too. Other nutrients that support general immune function are selenium and vitamin C, and herbal medicines, such as echinacea and andrographis.