L- Lysine

What is it? L-lysine is the active component of Lysine. Lysine is an amino acid that we obtain from our diets. L-lysine is integral to our bodies because it contributes to our growth and the formation of collagen (a component of skin and cartilage) and has a role in calcium absorption. It also produces carnitine, which changes fatty acids into energy and helps lower cholesterol in our bodies.

PROPERTIES: Antiviral, anti-osteoporotic, antioxidant

CONSIDERED USES

Cardiovascular: May help lower blood pressure (need more studies)

Gastrointestinal: Canker sores/aphthous ulcers, herpes simplex I labialis/cold sores, herpes simplex I

Genitourinary: Elevated PSA

Musculoskeletal: Enhances growth (debatable) and may increase muscle strength. It may help prevent bone loss in osteoporosis, enhance wound healing

Skin: Reduces severity and also helps prevent and support herpes simplex II - genital sore formation, bed sores

Mental Health: Schizophrenia (rx list cited 34% improvement), stress, anxiety

Glucose: May help lower blood sugar

Cholesterol: Cholesterol-lowering

Other: Enhances calcium absorption, may improve athletic performance, weight loss

Side Effects: Stomach upset, diarrhea

Cautions/Contraindications: Possibly kidney disease, caution with calcium supplementation (may increase calcium level)

FORMS: Tablets, capsules, powders, topical gels, creams, lip applicators, extracts, chewables

RECOMMENDED BRANDS

CVS Health® L-Lysine 1,000 mg (available at CVS)

GNC L-Lysine 1000 mg (order through Amazon link here)

Life Extension® L-Lysine 620 mg (order from Life Extension link here)

NOW® Double Strength L-Lysine 1,000 mg (order from Amazon link here)

Simple Truth® Free Form L-Lysine 500 mg (available in some retail stores)

Spring Valley® [Walmart] L-Lysine 1000 mg1 (available at some Walmarts)

Swanson® L-Lysine 500 mg capsule (order through Amazon link here)

Carlson L-Lysine Powder - NSF certified  (order from Fullscript link here)

Thorne Lysine 500 mg capsules - NSF certified  (order through the Fullscript here)

Allergy Research Group 500 mg capsules - NSF certified (order through Fullscript link here)

DOSAGES: As directed

The following are reported doses and may NOT be supported by evidence (reported by various sources, i.e., WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, ConsumerLabs, German Commission E, NIH publications, and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.

• Canker sore prevention: 500 mg by mouth daily

• Canker sore treatment: 1000 mg by mouth 4 times daily

• Diabetic foot ulcers/bed sores: Apply 15% cream to area 2 times daily

• Herpes I (herpes labialis) prevention and treatment: 1000 mg by mouth 3 times daily

• High blood pressure: 500 mg by mouth 2 times daily

• Schizophrenia: 3 gm by mouth 2 times daily (need more studies)

Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.