Specialty Supplements for HSV
The following is a list of supplements known to specifically target the Herpes Simplex Virus and may help to reduce the frequency or severity of herpes outbreaks. My top three suggestions are quercetin, lysine, and spirulina.
Quercetin
Studies have shown that quercetin (a flavonol, a type of flavonoid) has an antiviral effect against HSV-1, HSV-2, and Shingles. It cuts replication by more than 50%. It also acts against Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and HIV. Quercetin is also reported to help with upper respiratory infections caused by viruses (https://www.quercetin.com). It's also used to relieve allergies triggered by histamine release and for Histamine Intolerance. Those with Viral Cystitis may also benefit from taking quercetin.
Foods containing quercetin are capers, red onion, shallots, berries, grapes, kale, broccoli, bell peppers, tomatoes, scallions, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, citrus fruits, red apples, asparagus, buckwheat, black and green tea, elderberry tea, almonds, and pistachios. However, some of these foods may be HSV triggers, and none likely contain high enough doses to ease herpes-related symptoms, although there are many other health benefits to eating these foods.
Taking bromelain (200-800 mg daily) can help you better absorb quercetin. You can safely take up to 1000 mg of quercetin daily in divided doses. Taking quercetin on a full stomach is best. You should only take quercetin for 12 weeks at a time.
L-Lysine
Lysine, also known as L-lysine, and arginine are two amino acids found in foods containing protein. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins that serve to rebuild your bodily tissues. Both play vital roles in maintaining optimal health and wellness. You'll have to contend with these two particular amino acids when living with herpes. Arginine feeds the Herpes Simplex Virus. Lysine blocks arginine's ability to do so. Lysine is also beneficial for reducing stress and anxiety. The idea is to eat foods high in lysine to offset the arginine. You can learn more here.
Monlaurin
Monolaurin is a dietary supplement derived from lauric acid (a medium-chain fatty acid in coconut and palm oil). Monolaurin contains antiviral properties that penetrate the herpes virus biofilm and kill the virus, resulting in "no more herpes." Tests have proven this. You may read that it works for all human herpes viruses except genital herpes. Here's the thing. Some research studies reveal it works for genital herpes. You can read about those studies here. However, other studies on mice have shown that monolaurin can activate HSV-2.
Monolaurin has few to no side effects, and the FDA has deemed it safe to take daily indefinitely. However, start slowly and work up to the suggested dose to avoid a Herxheimer Reaction (feeling under the weather due to viral die-off). Monolaurin kills off harmful bacteria and fungal infections without harming good bacteria.
I have to warn you. Monolaurin has a soapy aftertaste, which can be enough to make some people feel nauseous (myself included). I suggest using only pellets, not capsules (capsules might make you burp the taste back up). You'll find a link to my favorite brand, The Ultimate Monolaurin, in The Herpothecary. For tips on dosing, click here.
Spirulina
Spirulina is a common name for two species of blue-green algae and is considered a superfood because of its high protein and mineral content. It contains trace minerals, exhibits potent antioxidant effects, and contains natural iodine, which has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. Spirulina also contains varying levels of iodine. Many people are deficient in iodine. Adding spirulina to shakes and smoothies is one way to boost overall immunity and maintain healthy iodine levels, which can be depleted by stress. However, excessive or insufficient iodine intake can lead to thyroid problems. It also contains healthy levels of iron. Spirulina also modulates immune function. Its anti-inflammatory properties inhibit histamine release. Adding spirulina to shakes and smoothies is one way to boost overall immunity. Note: Viruses love iron, so you'll want to use spirulina in moderation. Also, because spirulina contains higher amounts of arginine, which feeds the herpes virus, than lysine, which helps to keep it in check, you may not want to use it as a daily supplement.
Chlorella
Chlorella is another superfood known to support the immune system and help fight viruses. Spirulina and chlorella are potential remedies for reversing long-term COVID-19 by helping to detoxify and nourish the body with minimal to no side effects. Note: Chlorella, like spirulina, contains varying levels of iodine and iron. Viruses love iron, so you'll want to use chlorella in moderation. Additionally, if you have difficulty regulating your iron levels, consult your doctor before using chlorella.
Red Marine Algae
Red marine algae contain antiviral properties that enhance the immune system and help maintain a proper pH balance. Red algae have been used for centuries to prevent and treat pox-like viruses, including Herpes Simplex Virus. Studies have proven that red marine algae are more effective than Acyclovir, the leading prescription medication, in relieving HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections with no adverse side effects. It can be taken daily as a food supplement. However, because it's an immune stimulant, it may aggravate an autoimmune disorder. Additionally, if you tend to experience heartburn or gastritis, it may be better to take it with food or consider trying a different brand.
Note: In addition to algae, you may be interested in other sea supplements, such as seaweed, a nutrient-dense source of minerals. Nori and wakame are low-histamine seaweeds, compared to other seaweeds, that are usually easily tolerated by most. However, wakame contains higher levels of iron, which can pose problems for those living with certain health conditions. Additionally, viruses "love" an excess of iron.
Bee Products
Please see my HSV Remedy Review: Bee Products.
Turmeric (Curcumin)
Curcumin, an active ingredient in turmeric, is said to block the expression of HSV genes by inhibiting certain enzymes that contribute to inflammation and the development of herpes lesions. Curcumin supplements are available online and over the counter. You can also drink turmeric tea.
Ashwagandha & Omega-3 Fish Oils
Studies show that ashwagandha and omega-3 fish oil supplements can help reduce cortisol levels. Taking these supplements together could help balance stress hormones, which can reduce outbreaks.
Shiitake Mushroom Extract
Shiitake mushroom extract is an immune booster with antiviral properties that prevent HSV from entering host cells. Reishi, Lion's Mane, and Cordyceps mushroom extracts are also immune modulators and may help inhibit the herpes virus. Again, if you have an autoimmune disease, speak with your doctor before using immune-stimulating or immune-modulating supplements.
Mullein Leaf & Goldenseal
Mullein leaf and goldenseal are antiviral herbs. Goldenseal is typically used for acute viral infections of the ears, nose, and throat, including upper respiratory illnesses such as colds, influenza, and COVID-19. However, it can also be helpful against HSV.
BHT
Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a chemical used as a food preservative. People also use it as medicine, and some say it is anti-aging. BHT is used to treat HSV and AIDS. You can apply it directly to herpes lesions. While it is not a listed carcinogen, some studies have shown it does cause Cancer in animals (lung and liver) and may harm the thyroid gland. It is sold in vitamin stores and on Amazon as an antioxidant. I'm "iffy" on suggesting this touted remedy. I mention it only so that you are aware this option exists. I suggest using it sparingly.
MSM
Methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM) is used to ease the pain of Fibromyalgia Syndrome, which, by the way, can be caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus. MSN is anti-inflammatory and contains antiviral properties. While Fibromyalgia Syndrome is not associated with inflammation (it's more of a nerve signaling problem), the Herpes Simplex Virus has been implicated as a cause. MSM may help in that case.
DHEA
Chronic nervous system stimulation and an overworked immune system can lead to frequent herpes virus infections. Why? Because it causes inflammation. Your body naturally produces the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in the adrenals. However, DHEA levels decline with age. It drops even faster as a result of chronic stress.
Pro-inflammatory cytokines cause chronic inflammation that signals the immune system and provokes cell destruction. DHEA may reduce damage caused by chronic stress and inflammation. It prevents inflammation-causing cytokines from signaling the immune system while also boosting the immune system. DHEA also helps produce other hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. However, taking DHEA is often ignored as a treatment for chronic inflammation.
Instead, medical doctors often treat chronic inflammation with synthetic steroids (corticosteroids). Both synthetic steroids and cortisol (a natural stress hormone in the body) trigger herpes outbreaks. Did you catch that? If you take steroids, you have a greater chance of experiencing regular outbreaks. Why? Cortisol, in short bursts, helps reduce inflammation. However, ongoing or chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which in turn increases inflammation and triggers outbreaks.
Phytoestrogens
Taking a phytoestrogen supplement or eating foods containing phytoestrogens can help to reduce menopausal symptoms and herpes symptoms caused by female ovarian imbalances. ​However, if you are at risk for or have Cancer, don't eat foods containing phytoestrogens or take phytoestrogen supplements without discussing it with your doctor first.
Note: Some of the foods listed above are known to trigger HSV. However, it's not about cutting any particular food from your diet. Instead, it's about eating snacks and meals with a higher overall lysine content than arginine. My Comprehensive L-Lysine Versus Arginine Food Ratio Guide contains a comprehensive list of lysine and arginine food ratios to check your diet against.
Also, see Herbal Adaptogens & Antivirals.
