Expert: Tina - 11/28/2008

Question
Do you know if grapefruit seed extract will help with herpes. I have 2 kittens that have been sick for most of the last 4 months. They have been to several vets, given the ussual antibiotics. They have been on 250 lysine twice a day for 7 to 10 days off and on.Transfer factor, red marine algae,vit C, even tryed colliodal silver for a week. I give them diluted goldenseal drops to clear the eyes and nose as needed. I need to get them well long enough to get them neutered.

Answer
HI Maggie,

I don't think GSE will be of any use against the virus, but It probably would not hurt to give a pill - do not give them the liquid or apply any topically as it can burn the mucus membranes - very acidic.

What I do highly recommend is adding in to their food Lactoferrin 250mg a day

http://www.iherb.com/ProductDetails.aspx?c=1&pid=4088&at=0

It is similar to colostrum but more powerful and seems to work well for herpes infections.

I would keep up with the lysine at the same time, it helps slow down the viral reproduction and along with the lactoferrin you might be able to knock it out.

You probably want to continue with the goldenseal drops or possibly use colloidal silver on the eyes - but make sure it is a brand with no additives and proven potency, I use Source Naturals- Wellness Colloidal Silver 30ppm.

If they are not already on probiotics, that can help too by building up their immune systems. Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra capsules are good, you can give about 1/8 the contents of the capsule in each meal.

You are doing the right thing waiting for surgery until they are stabilized, as you know active herpes infections can cause heart arrhythmia, making anesthetic dangerous.

Good luck with the kittens and best wishes!