Health Support

This treatment uses a multifaceted approach to improve the body’s natural immune system response, which has several compounding effects to eliminate the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

This treatment incorporates 5 core ingredients; the principal catalyst though, is Synergy’s Amino Acid Formula. It is capable of enabling the immune system to generate the production of T Cells that then spread throughout the nervous system and targets the herpes viral cells. The T Cells are an adaptive immune response integral to the elimination of the herpes viral cells within both the sacral ganglion and the trigeminal ganglion.

Astragalus is the key in the activation and regulation of macrophages that are potent in combating the HSV infection. The replication of the HSV cell structure within the neural ganglia is restricted by macrophages. These particular macrophages enable the breakdown of the viral envelop and leaves the virus susceptible to attack. Given Astragalus is capable of stimulating macrophages it plays a crucial compounding role in the process.  Rhodiola is an antigen that normalizes the nervous system function, which also helps to identify the herpes cells in the nervous system so the immune system can fight the virus more effectively. 

Rhodiola acts as a mechanism to eradicate viral antigen expression. Tribulus works to increase the potency of Rhodiola, there by amplifying its beneficial properties. The Lysine acts to starve HSV of its essential sustenance to reproduce being Arginine. In doing so, it makes the existing herpes cells detectable to the immune system so that antibodies and T Cells can then effectively respond to the virus.

Keeping this process in mind, no antiviral medication has been able to kill the herpes virus, they only act to reduce their reproduction and suppress the outbreaks. Synergy Pharmaceuticals combination treatment is a revolution in the complete eradication of HSV 1 and HSV 2.

This treatment is not only for sufferers of Herpes, it is a remarkable health treatment package. People who suffer from fatigue, increased susceptibility to colds and flu and those that simply want to look younger and feel better can benefit.

The way in which it works is that we firstly concentrate on boosting the immune system through the use of Astragalus. The Chinese have been using this as remedy for numerous health conditions for hundreds of years because of its health giving properties. We then integrate Rhodiola which can increase energy levels, act as a mood stabiliser and assist with focus and memory. Because it is an adaptogen, Rhodiola has the potential to normalize neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. This element is integral to allow the nervous system to heal itself. The use of Tribulus is to enable greater strength, stamina and physical performance. However we apply it in this package mainly because when used in conjunction with Rhodiola it amplifies the effectiveness of both. Evidence suggests that L-Lysine supplementation may help to support a healthy immune system as well as proper cardiovascular function.

Finally the proprietary blend amino acid formula that we use is the most important ingredient in this treatment package. We have selected ones which may reduce inflammation, boost immunity and promote the healing of internal wounds. Furthermore, it acts to reduce and repair cell damage and oxidisation, thereby not only healing the body but actively slowing down the aging process.

We can only suggest the following as we are not your personal medical physician and we do not know your medical history.
Exercise is essential in building a healthy and strong nervous system, immune system and creating an environment where your wellbeing is best placed to gain the fullest benefits from the treatment. Regular exercise in the range of 4-5 days per week is encouraged.

Assess your own diet and look at increasing fruit and vegetable intake where possible particularly alkaline foods such as coconut water, green vegetables such as spinach, lettuce and kale. Alkalising your body through the intake of dietary sources helps to reduce acidity. High levels of acidity have been linked to a greater susceptibility to illnesses and viruses. Try and reduce saturated fats including deep fried foods and eliminate alcohol where possible.

Obesity increases our susceptibility to infectious diseases. Carrying too much weight for your shape causes your body to remain in a state of chronic inflammation, with the surplus fat secreting harmful hormones into your system, and causing it to function at an impaired level.

Sleep deprivation can significantly damage the body’s ability to heal and repair itself. Deep sleep restores damaged cells and boosts immune system repair. The less sleep you have, the more susceptible you are to infections.

Try to reduce stress as this is proven to negatively impact the immune system, causing our bodies to enter a state of constant alert which in turn depletes our natural reserves. As a consequence of stress, our immune system functions at a sub-optimal level, and our energy is sapped, due to our adrenal glands becoming overworked.

Providing you keep generally good health you do not need to follow any particular diet, although avoiding Arginine rich foods is important. Have a look under the L-Arginine section of this page for further information on what foods to avoid. The following information here is explained in case this is helpful to get your diet on track. We suggest that increasing the alkaline levels in the body by means of green leafy vegetables, spinach, kale and elements like coconut water and coconut oil will help to achieve this. Maintaining a higher alkaline level in the body means you are less susceptible to infections and viruses and can help to increase the effectiveness of the treatment. Try to incorporate more fruits, vegetables, rice, fish and lean meat. For those that are overweight and have a poor diet we recommend reducing the deep fried fatty foods and the highly processed high sugar foods whilst increasing the exercise routine to 3-4 days per week where possible.

In terms of really applying a more alkaline diet you may like to limit

• sugar
• certain dairy products (if lactose intolerant)
• processed foods
• processed meats, such as corned beef, ham and turkey
• foods high in saturated fats.

Selenium, which is nutritionally essential for humans, plays a critical roles in reproduction, thyroid hormone metabolism, DNA synthesis, and protection from oxidative damage and infection. The additional intake of selenium may be beneficial due to the possible malabsorption of selenium intake due to viral infection. Selenium is integral to complete immune system functionality. If you already have a balanced diet then you wouldn’t need to take any additional selenium supplement.

Increase the intake of the following foods to boost Selenium levels: Mushrooms, cooked Pasta, egg noodles, Pasta (white), Yogurt, milk, Cottage cheese, Yogurt, Greek, all flavours, non fat, Egg, Tuna, sardines, salmon, canned, Oysters, Fish in general, Liver (lamb, chicken, pork), cooked, Chicken various cuts, cooked Pork various cuts, Beef various cuts, Lamb various cuts, cooked Macaroni, Spinach.

The product is very effective to eliminate herpes entirely without the diet being a big influence. We recommend to increase and limit these particular foods as they do help to boost a person’s overall health. The only thing which may have a significant affect on the treatment is prescription medication, smoking and drinking alcohol in high quantities. If you are taking any prescription medication please let us know so we can check whether it may interfere with the treatment. Other herbal and natural supplements are fine to take simultaneously with Synergy’s treatment. However, Oregano Oil, Olive Leaf Extract can interfere with the efficacy of the treatment. Please refer to the Olive Leaf Extract and Oregano Oil sections of this page for further information.  Colloidal Silver is an effective way in which to remove the heavy metals which studies have noted the virus relies on.  Do ensure that between taking Synergy’s combination and consuming Colloidal Silver 2 – 4 hours is allocated because of the detoxifying effect it can have.   

Arginine or L-Arginine is a conditionally essential amino acid found in the diet. L-arginine is found in red meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products. There is no recommended daily amount established for arginine, because the human body normally makes enough.

L-arginine is converted in the body into a chemical called nitric oxide. Nitric oxide causes blood vessels to open wider for improved blood flow. L-arginine also stimulates the release of growth hormone, insulin, and other substances in the body. While there have been studies that have measured increased effects of nitric oxide (blood flow) they are paired with studies showing no net effects. As for the mechanism, there is reason to believe that this difference is in part due to poor absorption of L-arginine from the intestines before it can reach appreciable activity in the body. Some evidence shows that arginine may help improve blood flow in the arteries of the heart. That may improve symptoms of clogged arteries, chest pain or angina, and coronary artery disease. However, there currently is no data on how the long-term use of arginine affects cholesterol or heart health.

There are other potential health benefits with arginine, such as possible reduction of blood pressure in some people and improved walking distance in patients with intermittent leg cramping and weakness known as intermittent claudication. However, the scientific studies are not conclusive enough for experts to make any firm recommendations. Not all studies on arginine have been positive. A 2006 study showed that arginine was not helpful — and may have been harmful — for treating heart attacks in combination with standard treatment.

Medical research has substantiated that people with the herpes simplex virus should abstain from arginine supplementation in their diet. Studies have verified that patients prone to herpetic lesions and other related viral infections, particularly during periods of stress, should abstain from arginine excess and may also require supplemental lysine in their diet. A study performed in 1995 at the University of California, confirmed the connection between L- arginine and the localized spread of herpes simplex virus type – 1.

Further research has substantiated the effects of higher levels of arginine has on stimulating the growth of viral activity. Each individual processes and stores arginine in the body differently, which can further propagate the spread of the virus through the neural ganglia to other areas of the body.

Recommendation: To reduce where possible arginine dietary intake and supplementation. It has a counterproductive and negative impact on the effectiveness of Synergy’s protocol. Additional supplementation of Lysine is may be a requirement to offset arginine levels particularly in cases where individuals may process and store arginine at higher levels.

Reduce the intake of the following foods that contain high levels of Arginine: Grains, Hazel Nuts, Brazil Nuts, Peanuts, Walnuts, Almonds, Cocoa powder, Peanut butter, Sesame seeds, Cashews, Carol Powder, Oatmeal rolled, Raisins, Chocolate, Gelatin, Wheatgerm, Soybeans, Pistachios, Squash, Puffed Oats, Chestnuts, Pumpkin seeds, Macadamia Nuts, Popcorn.

Supporting References:

Growth hormone, arginine and exercise. Kanaley JA1. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2008 Jan;11 (1):50-4.
Anti-aging effects of l-arginine Mohamed Z.Gad, Journal of Advanced Research, Volume 1, Issue 3, July 2010, Pages 169-177
Effect of nitric oxide synthase inhibitors on hypotension in patients with septic shock A Petros, D Bennett, P Vallance The Lancet, 1991 – Elsevier
Treatment of recurrent herpes simplex infections with L-lysine monohydrochloride. MA McCune, HO Perry, SA Muller, WM O’Fallon Cutis, 1984 – europepmc.org
Arginine methylation of the ICP27 RGG box regulates ICP27 export and is required for efficient herpes simplex virus 1 replication SK Souki, PD Gershon, RM Sandri-Goldin Journal of virology, 2009 – Am Soc Microbiol

Zinc is an important mineral that is found in every single cell of the body. The red and white blood cells, our bones, retina, kidneys, pancreas and liver all store zinc. The tenth most common element in the human body, zinc is vital for the functioning of more than 300 hormones and countless enzyme systems in the body. Zinc is also vital for cells to divide and replicate during the production of new tissues.

Zinc plays a crucial role in supporting optimal immune system function. White blood cells which help to fight off infection depend upon zinc for their development and activation. A deficiency of zinc can result in diminished amounts of white blood cells and reduced ability to fight infection and heal wounds. This is precisely why zinc supplements are often recommended for fighting colds and flu.

Zinc is an important component of one of the most powerful antioxidants produced with the body known as Copper/Zinc Superoxide Dismutase. This antioxidant helps to neutralise free radicals that can wreak havoc with our body’s systems and thus maintaining healthy levels of zinc is especially important to increasing our longevity.

According to the European Journal of Immunology, the human body needs zinc to activate T lymphocytes (T Cells). The Amino Acid Formula by Synergy is integral to producing T Cells to specifically target and eliminate the HSV virus. The production though of T Cells is dependent on an adequate level of zinc present for this production to occur.

Current measures of Zinc deficiency show that 25% of the population are zinc deficient yet zinc deficiencies severely impair immune system function. Most importantly though a deficiency of zinc will greatly diminish the efficacy of Synergy’s treatment. The two active compounds support one another to activate T cell regulation and macrophage production which are crucial to successfully eradicating the herpes virus.

In clinical studies zinc has been shown to deactivate HSV-2 as well as HSV-1. Various forms of zinc hold different results, zinc lactate at high concentration could deactivate HSV-2 at a rate of 92%.

Correspondingly the use of zinc with the Amino Acid Formula developed has far greater benefits for those with satisfactory zinc levels than those who have a zinc deficiency.

Recommendation: Zinc is pivotal to the immune system regulation, it has great complementary gains and acceptable levels are essential with Synergy’s protocol. The Amino Acid Formula relies heavily on Zinc for effective T cell production.

Recommended Oral Dose: 25 – 75 mg daily Zinc Picolinate (this is the recommend type), Acetate, Zinc Gluconate, Zinc Lactate or Zinc Chelate,

Supporting References: 

A randomized clinical trial on the treatment of oral herpes with topical zinc oxide/glycine. Godfrey HR, Godfrey NJ, Godfrey JC, Riley D. Altern Ther Health Med. 2001;7(3):49-56.
Therapy of banal HSV lesions: Molecular mechanisms of the antiviral activity of zinc sulfate. Kümel G, Schrader S, Zentgraf H, Brendel M. Hautarzt. 1991;42:439–45. [PubMed]
Zinc signals promote IL-2-dependent proliferation of T cells. Eur J Immunol. 2010 May;40(5):1496-503. doi: 10.1002/eji.200939574. Kaltenberg J1, Plum LM, Ober-Blöbaum JL, Hönscheid A, Rink L, Haase H.
Oral zinc sulphate in the treatment of recalcitrant viral warts Br J Dermatol. 2002 Mar;146(3):423-31.
Oral zinc sulphate in the treatment of recalcitrant viral warts: randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Al-Gurairi FT1, Al-Waiz M, Sharquie KE.
Efficacy of zinc against common cold viruses: an overview. Hulisz D1. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003). 2004 Sep-Oct;44(5):594-603.
Zinc for the treatment of the common cold: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials Michelle Science, MD, Jennie Johnstone, MD, Daniel E. Roth, MD PhD, Gordon Guyatt, MD MSc, and Mark Loeb, MD MSc
Topical application of zinc-solutions: A new treatment for herpes simplex infections of the skin? Wahba A. Acta Derm Venereol. 1980;60:175–77. [PubMed]

Selenium, which is nutritionally essential for humans, that play critical roles in reproduction, thyroid hormone metabolism, DNA synthesis, and protection from oxidative damage and infection. The additional intake of selenium may be beneficial due to the possible absorption of selenium intake due to viral infection. Selenium is integral to complete immune system functionality.

Selenium benefits include the ability to fight the aging process and help the immune system by reducing free radical damage. Selenium has a synergistic effect with other antioxidants like Vitamin E, enabling the body to fight oxidative stress and to defend against cancers like prostate and colon cancer. Selenium is needed to fight oxidative degradation of cells and to protect against mutation and DNA damage that can cause disease. Selenium is especially helpful if you have a weak immune system, interventions using selenium treatments at high doses have shown that selenium benefits anti-cancer abilities within the body.

Selenium acts like a little mechanic within the body. It goes into the nucleus of cell where the DNA and genome are stored and finds damage. It attaches to protective antioxidants like glutathione and then works to reduce and repair damage done to DNA, which left uncontrolled could lead to cancerous cell mutation and tumor growth.

Studies have shown that a high dose of 200 mcg. a day of selenium can be effective in protecting DNA which can reduce the risk for cell mutation and cancer development.

Recommendation: Adequate levels of selenium are highly beneficial and additional supplementation may be taken in conjunction with Synergy’s protocol.

Increase the intake of the following foods to boost Selenium levels: Mushrooms, Couscous, cooked, Pasta, egg noodles, enriched, Pasta, Yogurt, milk or soy, Cottage cheese, Yogurt, Greek, all flavours, non fat, Egg, Tuna, sardines, salmon, canned, Oysters, Fish in general, Liver (lamb, chicken, turkey, pork), cooked, Chicken or turkey, various cuts, cooked, Pork, various cuts, cooked, Beef, various cuts, cooked, Lamb, Canadian, various cuts, cooked, Macaroni, Turkey, Spinach.

Additional supplementation: Recommended Dose 100mcg – 200mcg daily.

Supporting References: 

Selenium and human health. Rayman M,P. Lancet. 2012 Mar 31;379(9822):1256-68.
Selenium supplementation for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Rees K, Hartley L, Day C, Flowers N, Clarke A, Stranges S. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013 Jan 31;(1)
Selenium for preventing cancer. Vinceti M, Dennert G, Crespi CM, Zwahlen M, Brinkman M, Zeegers MP, Horneber M, D’Amico R, Del Giovane C. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014 Mar 30;(3).
Selenium in the Treatment of Thyroid Diseases Michele Marinò, Claudio Marcocci, Paolo Vitti, Luca Chiovato, Luigi Bartalena Eur Thyroid J. 2017 Apr; 6(2): 113–114.

Melatonin – Has been shown to be an immunoregulatory, free radical scavenger and has powerful antioxidant functions. Because of these latter characteristics, melatonin has also been found to be effective in fighting viral infections in a variety of studies. There is a great deal of support behind the idea of melatonin as an immune buffer, acting as a stimulant under immunosuppressive conditions or as an anti-inflammatory compound in the presence of exacerbated immune responses, such as acute inflammation and infection.

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is the major neurohormone secreted by the pineal gland. It is responsible for modulating a wide range of physiological functions with multiple effects on the immune system. Found to be represented in every cell in the organism, melatonin has been linked to numerous additional functions, being involved in primary sleep patterns, vasomotor control, anti-excitatory actions and most importantly the regulation of mitochondrial functions. Melatonin and its metabolites were found to have also important immunomodulatory and antioxidant upregulating properties owing to their direct and indirect antioxidant actions. In some studies it has been referred to as an immuno-stimulant, describing its anti-inflammatory properties as an immune buffer, acting as a stimulant under immunosuppressive conditions or as an anti-inflammatory compound in the presence of exacerbated immune responses, such as acute inflammation. Data suggests a possible therapeutic potential of melatonin in human virus-induced disorders and plays a protecting role in infections induced by encephalitis viruses. The benefits in supplementing melatonin under different immune conditions, such as infection, autoimmunity and immunosenescence lead to multiple applications to the Herpes Simplex Virus.

One possible weakness of melatonin is its short half-life and the relatively low levels in serum during day hours. Administration of melatonin to humans at pharmacological concentrations is essentially non-toxic, also in the neonatal period and the results obtained in vitro and in experimental studies support a possible beneficial immunoregulatory and anti-oxidant role of this molecule in viral infection and address its possible therapeutic potential in human virus-induced diseases. The supplementation of melatonin is further evidenced by the connection between infection and decreased melatonin production. Research has shown that inflammatory responses due to an infection involves the suppression of nocturnal melatonin production, reinforcing the idea of bidirectional pineal-immune system cross-talk. Thus reflecting that HSV has a direct connection with a decrease in melatonin production which potentially alters the immune systems direct response. There is inadequate research to fully understand this correlation to infection and reduced melatonin production. This can mean a twofold effect; the firstly being the infection deregulates and disrupts the production of melatonin. Subsequently the reduced melatonin production may point to increased viral infection severity. Alternatively it may be that the reduced melatonin production due to the infection is due to a diversion of the pineal gland as an immunoregulatory response.

Recommendation: There is a great deal of support that adequate melatonin levels are an immune buffer, acting as a stimulant under immunosuppressive conditions or as an anti-inflammatory compound in the presence of exacerbated immune responses, such as acute inflammation and infection. It is beneficial to Synergy’s protocol.

Recommended Dose: Melatonin is a sleep aid and care should be taken to consider if this is suitable for you. Melatonin comes in a pharmaceutical grade compound available through prescription only in most countries at 2mg. Alternatively, it is also available as a health supplement without prescription at 2mg – 20mg dose.

Supporting References: 

Mechanisms of cancer inhibition by melatonin RJ Reiter Journal of pineal research, 2004
Melatonin as an antioxidant: physiology versus pharmacology RJ Reiter, DX Tan, MD Maldonado Journal of pineal research, 2005
A review of the multiple actions of melatonin on the immune system A Carrillo-Vico, JM Guerrero, PJ Lardone, RJ Reiter Endocrine, 2005
Melatonin and viral infections E Bonilla, N Valero, L Chacín‐Bonilla… Journal of pineal 2004
Melatonin induces changes to serum cytokines in mice infected with the Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis virus N Valero, E Bonilla, H Pons, L Chacin-Bonilla… Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene Volume 96, Issue 3, May–June 2002, Pages 348-351

Olive leaf extract comes from the leaves of an olive plant. It contains an active ingredient called oleuropein. This nutrient is thought to contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of olive leaf extract. Olive leaf extract is a natural source of wellness with therapeutic properties that are linked to potential gastroprotective, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

On a bacterial level oleuropein is thought to achieve the bacterial destruction of Bacillus cereus by either inactivating cellular enzymes crucial for bacterial replication or by attacking the cell membrane, destroying its permeability and causing leakage of intracellular components such as glutamate, potassium and phosphorus.

An in vitro study revealed that oleuropein and its derivative hydroxytyrosol act as natural antibiotics against a range of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Most impressively, these two components of olive leaf inhibited Staphylococcus aureus, the bacteria responsible for many hospital-acquired infections.

Olive leaf has been shown to stimulate phagocytosis, thereby enhancing the immune response to viral infections. Herpes outbreaks are more likely to occur to when the immune system is compromised or when your body is in stress mode. Oleuropein, the main component in olive leaf extract, works by boosting the immune system to stimulate protein production, specifically proteins Oct-2. At the same time however the binding of the oleuropein with protein compounds can create a cellular layer surrounding the viral cells. This process reduces the HSV cells from reproducing but correspondingly it can have a negative effect on the body’s antibody response, in its ability to penetrate and eliminate the viral cell structure.

Recommendation: Olive leaf extract has proven to be a useful herbal supplement, however with its application as a complementary supplement with Synergy’s treatment is questionable. There is a conflicting view that whilst it may help to improve the immune system it may correspondingly be counterproductive in the way in which the oleuropein compound layers the viral cells and blocks lysine metabolism. This can also impact on the T Cells capacity to penetrate and break down the virus. As such there is no notable advantage of including Olive Leaf Extract with Synergy’s treatment.

Supporting References:

In vitro antimicrobial activity of olive leaves; Markin D, Duek L, Berdicevsky I; Mycoses. 2003 Apr;46(3-4):132-6.
Phenolic compounds and antimicrobial activity of olive (Olea europaea L. Cv. Cobrançosa) leaves; Pereira AP, et.al; Molecules. 2007 May 26;12(5):1153-62.
The olive leaf extract exhibits antiviral activity against viral haemorrhagic septicaemia rhabdovirus (VHSV). Micol V et.al; Instituto de Biologia molecular u celular, Universidad Miguel Hernandez, Spain.
On the In-Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Oleuropein and Hydroxytyrosol. Bisignano G, Tomaino A, Lo Cascio R, Crisafi G, Uccella N, Saija A. J. Pharm. Pharmacol. 1999; 51: 971-74.

Monolaurin, is the glycerol ester of lauric acid, a 12-carbon chain fatty acid found naturally in breast milk and certain vegetable oils. This fatty acid has been used as a germicidal agent for centuries with extensive research demonstrating the natural antibiotic properties of this compound. Lauric acid was originally discovered when microbiologists studied human breast milk to determine the antiviral substances which protected infants from microbial infections. Other fatty acids were also found to have antimicrobial actions but the 12-carbon chain of lauric acid was found to be the most active. In addition the esterification of lauric acid yielded a compund, Monolaurin (glycerol monolaurate), with even greater antiviral activity. The human body has the machinery to metabolize fatty acids and glycerol, the end-products of fat digestion. Both the parent substance (lipid) and its metabolic breakdown products are non-toxic to humans.

Monolaurin is primarily used for fighting infectious diseases or medical conditions, this includes the common cold, flu, fungus and viral infections. Monolaurin is one of the most popular nutrients to assist in combating various viruses. It is believed to work by interacting with the lipids and phospholipids that form the envelope of the virus, causing it to weaken or disintegrate. Many of the types of viruses monolaurin helps are those that can be chronic low-grade infections that deplete energy on a regular basis and flare up when you are stressed or down particularly HSV 1 and HSV 2.

While Monolaurin is most widely used as an anti-viral agent, it also has beneficial effects against pathogenic bacteria, yeasts and fungi; other fatty acids such as caprylic and sorbic acids are more effective against yeasts, but ineffective against viruses. In a study performed at the CDC, which focused on Monolaurintested strains of viruses, Monolaurin was able to solubulize the enveloped membrane of 14 human RNA and DNA viruses (3). These include influenza, RSV, Rubeola, Newcastle’s, Coronavirus, Herpes Simplex types 1 & 2, Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus. (Monolaurin has no effect on naked viruses, such as polio, encephalitis virus, coxsachie, or pox viruses.)

The mechanism of action involves direct antiviral activity. The lauric acid binds to the lipid-protein envelop of the virus and inactivates the virus. Recent publications have shown that monolaurin and lauric acid inhibit the replication of viruses by interrupting the binding of virus to host cells and thus preventing the uncoating of viruses necessary for replication and infection. Data from these studies suggest that the loss of virus infectivity is associated with the solubilisation of Monolaurin into the envelope. The virus absorbs the fatty acid for its own replication, but winds up destroying its own protective coat. This binding process of monolaurin to the viral envelop also makes the virus more susceptible to degradation by host defenses.

Recommendation: Monolaurin has shown to have significant benefits in assisting in the breaking down of viral cell membranes. 

Recommended Dose: Monolaurin, given orally in doses of 600-1800 mg/day is generally recommended. Where chronic viral infections are present maintaining a 1000mg daily dose is optimal.

Supporting References:

Fatty Acids and Derivatives as Antimicrobial Agents Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 2(l):23-28 (1972) Kabara. J.J.. Conley. A J.- Swieczkowski. D M. Ismail, I.A . Lie Ken Jie and Gunstone, F D.
Antimicrobial Action of Isomeric Fatty Acids on Group A Streptococcus Journal of Medicinal Chemistry 16:1060-1063 (1973).
Antimicrobial Lipids: Natural and Synthetic Fatty Acids and Monoglycerides. Kabara. J.J., Vrable, R. and Lie Ken Jie, M.S.F Lipids 12:753759 (1977).
Toxicological, Bactericidal and Fungicidal Properties of Fatty Acids and Some Derivatives Kabara, J.J. JAOCS 56:760-767
Lauric oils as antimicrobial agents: theory of effect, scientific rationale, and dietary applications as adjunct nutritional support for HIV-infected individuals in Nutrients and Foods in AIDS (RR Watson, ed) CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1998, pp. 81-97. Enig, M G.
Monolaurin Kills Candida and Gram Positive Bacteria Lipids. Kabara JJ, Vrable R.
Monolaurin and Caprylic Acid Kill Candida Antimicrob Agents Chemother. Bergsson G, Arnfinnsson J, Steingrímsson O , Thormar H.
Monolaurin Reduces Gram Positive Bacteria Toxicity Antimicrob Agents Chemother. Schlievert PM, Deringer JR, Kim MH, Projan SJ, Novick RP.
Severity of Gram Positive Infection Reduced by Monolaurin Antimicrob Agents Chemother. Vetter SM, Schlievert PM.
Monolaurin Effective Against H. Pylori FEMS Immunol Med Microbiol. Sun CQ, O’Connor CJ, Roberton AM.
Monolaurin and Superstrain Infections Appl Environ Microbiol. Dufour M, Manson JM, Bremer PJ, Dufour JP, Cook GM, Simmonds RS.

Oregano oil is derived from the leaves and flowers of oregano (Origanum vulgare), a hardy, bushy perennial herb, and a member of the mint (Lamiaceae) family. It’s native to Europe, although it grows in many areas around the world.

The disinfectant and antibacterial properties of oregano essential oil were first recognized in ancient Greece where it was often used for treating bacterial infections on the skin or in the wounds. It was also used to protect food from bacteria. The essential oil of oregano is extracted through steam distillation of fresh oregano leaves, which bear the scientific name Oreganum Vulgare. Its chief components are carvacrol, thymol, cymene, caryophyllene, pinene, bisabolene, linalool, borneol, geranyl acetate, linalyl acetate, and terpinene. The compound called carvacrol is largely responsible for its biological activities. In addition to antiviral properties, this compound also has antibacterial, antifungal and antiparasital effects and may also help protect cells’ genetic material.

It is used in many ways such as in aromatherapy and natural medicine. It can be applied topically onto the skin or through a carrier oil like coconut oil for improving your skin quality. It may also be ingested in very small quantities as a dietary supplement, usually when diluted in honey or other non-dairy beverages.

Oregano essential oil can act as an expectorant, which loosens up or helps to eliminate the uncomfortable buildups of mucus and phlegm in the respiratory tracts and sinuses. It is also used as a soothing balm for inflamed lungs and throat, which often stimulate coughing fits. Therefore, oregano essential prevents and treats symptoms of respiratory ailments.

This oil is good in soothing many types of inflammation, internal or external, caused by a variety of reasons. When it is applied topically, it can reduce redness and irritation to the applied area, can relieve pain associated with arthritis or injury. When consumed, it has much of the same effect, although it is spread throughout the body, so will not necessarily relieve pain and discomfort as quickly.

Oregano oil can protect against bacterial infections as well. This gives you an additional level of protection against bacterial diseases such as infections in the colon and urinary tract, as well as typhoid, cholera, sores, skin infections, and food poisoning.

Being an  anti-bacterial, carvacrol, the active ingredient in oregano oil may possibly assist with the herpes virus. By improving the efficacy of the immune system, there has been mixed reports of its successful application. Herpes virus is capable of binding themselves to the membrane and even penetrating it if your body is deficient in effective proteoglycan synthesis. Conventional antibiotics find it difficult to effectively penetrate the membrane into the DNA core in order to fight the virus in its most vulnerable state.

A study conducted by Sidiqqui (1996), published in Medical Science Research, demonstrated that oregano oil in laboratory tests were able to break down the HSV virus. However, this was laboratory petri dish test and was not applied to human studies, furthermore and it should be noted that alcohol for example would have the same outcome.

The application as to whether oregano oil can be absorbed due to its different chemical constituents has not been verified. So it can’t be certain which components are reaching the circulation and the area targeted.

There are risks associated as well with several reports of gastrointestinal upset, skin irritation and damage to the skin due to improper concentrations. Increased thymol levels from oregano oil can also irritate your stomach’s lining. The irritation leads to nausea or other digestive conditions that end up with sensitive stomachs or diarrhea. The consequences may be serious, as it damages your liver function. There is no evidence to suggest that oil of oregano, used at high (medicinal) amounts, may be used safely in pregnant or breast feeding women. With animal studies showing that when carvacrol was applied to the skin it induced abortions in pregnant mice. Oregano oil stimulates your heart, which causes palpitations. For those who have a history of anxiety, it may trigger attacks as well. Those who suffer from heart conditions should take caution when consuming the oil.

Recommendation: There is conflicting reports as to the efficacy of Oregano Oil to alleviate symptoms of outbreaks and cold sores. The query over how much is absorbed and whether this reaches the area where the virus is located is also questionable. There is no interference or conflict with having the topical application to the skin. When ingesting however there is potential interference, allow for at least 4 hours either side before having Synergy’s product so that the ingredients are adequately absorbed and there is no dilution of the ingredients potency.

Recommended Dose: Care needs to be taken with any application of Oregano Oil, Synergy Pharmaceuticals does not recommend the application of this due to the risks it poses.

Apply a couple drops diluted with a carrier oil directly to lesions.

Apply 4-6 drops to a 4 oz glass of water of juice. Apply some coconut oil to your lips and drink.  Treatment use: use the diluted 4-6 drops up to 10 times a day.

Treatment use: dilute 2-3 drops with a small amount of carrier oil and apply directly under the tongue for 10 minutes. Repeat several times a day.

Take capsules as instructed.

Preventative use: 1-4 drops under the tongue for a minute then follow up with a glass of water.

Use 3 drops of oil and dilute with small amount of carrier oil. Rub into the lower spine area right above the buttocks to cover a 2-4 inch span. Do this in the morning and at night.

Supporting References: 

Siddiqui, Y.M. & Ettayebi, M & Haddad, A.M.. (1996). Effect of essential oils on the enveloped viruses: Antiviral activity of oregano and clove oils on herpes simplex virus type 1 and Newcastle disease virus. Medical Science Research. 24. 185-186.
Antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of Origanum essential oils,” J Agric Food Chem 44:1202-1205, 1996.