HSV-1 is very hard to eliminate due to its ability to establish latency within the nervous tissue. To counter this, I read that a drug (http://www.time.com/...1819739,00.html) is being developed that releases the latent virions all at once so that the immune system can eliminate the virus without having to deal with the latency issue. Otherwise, HSV-1 staggers its latency, never releasing all its virions at once to maintain a reservoir of backup viruses.
The problem with pharmaceuticals is that we have to wait a long time for them to be designed, created, and then approved, if ever.
However, there are known triggers that release HSV-1 from latency. Sunlight/UV-radiation is a prime example. Also, stimulants (caffeine, amphetamine, yohimbine, etc.) have been associated in viral activation. The proposed mechanism behind activation from latency is that the micro-RNAs produced by a latent virus prevents viral activation. These micro-RNAs lose this function when placed under stressors such as UV-radiation. Therefore, micro-RNA inactivation releases the virus from latency and initiates viral replication cycles.
I propose we use this knowledge to our advantage. For individuals with HSV-1 antibodies or cold sores:
1) Identify triggers for viral activation that you feel comfortable with. I think sunlight is a good one since it also provides vitamin D.
2) Design a powerful anti-HSV-1 supplement stack
3) Add the different supplements/drugs over time. Wait a few days to ensure that you have built up sufficient plasma concentration of the different antiviral compounds.
4) Activate the dormant viruses. Through the sunlight method, just spend as much time as possible in the sun (before getting sunburn), preferrably in the summer when UV levels are higher. Continue taking the supplement stack throughout.
Some people might be turned off by this because of UV exposure from sunlight. That is why you must identify the trigger that you are comfortable with. Perhaps none of the triggers are worthwhile, in which case we will have to wait for a drug.
