MONOLAURIN ANTIMICROBIAL - ANTIVIRAL

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INTRODUCTION 

The most common facial/ skin conditions due to a microbial pathogen are acne and herpes cold sores/ fever blisters. Acne pertains to the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes). There are numerous skin “washes” available for washing acne lesions on the face. The herpesvirus is discussed herein as it is responsible for the majority of viral related skin conditions. Common herpesvirus skin disorders include cold sores/ fever blisters, genital herpes infections and shingles outbreaks. Unlike acne, there are no currently available “washes” for herpes lesions, such as cold sores, other than plain soap.  

Both the CDC and FDA recommend using soap on a viral lesion. Soap is considered a cosmetic cleanser (not an antiseptic or device). Soap works by chemically disrupting the fatty membrane (envelope) of viruses and physically loosening them from the skin. Furthermore, the CDC and FDA recommend that using soap and water reduces viral infectivity and removes germs from skin, making it a highly effective prevention method. A problem with soaps is that harsh or heavily scented soaps can irritate a cold sore, dry it out and potentially slow the healing process. It would be of benefit to have a gentle cleaning compound to wash cold sores on the face without irritating or drying them or prolonging healing time. 

• WHY MONOLAURIN?
• Monolaurin, also known as glycerol monolaurate or GML, is a fatty acid, a naturally occurring oil/ fat compound produced by the body in the subcutaneous tissue of the skin, in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and in mother’s milk. It is derived from the fatty acid lauric acid, which makes up 45% of coconut oil. 
• The structure of GML makes it a surfactant, i.e., a surface acting agent. Surfactants are the key active ingredients in soaps and detergents that give them their cleaning properties. In this way, GML is a cleaning agent. GML is nature-derived, safe and non-toxic when applied on skin & mucosa, hence it does not need to be washed off after application. Synthetic soaps and detergents can dry and irritate skin and cold sores, which can prevent healing. Due to such side effects synthetic soaps and detergents need to be rinsed off shortly after their application. 
• GML is known to have a wide spectrum of antimicrobial effects. Its antimicrobial effects have been known for over 50 years. GML has demonstrated a killing effect on bacteria, fungi, and viruses in laboratory studies. Published reports are summarized as follows. 

The information below is to show validated studies regarding monolaurin effects that have been found in the laboratory. We make no claims that monolaurin has any effects as a treatment for any condition. We hope that by providing peer-reviewed, and generally positive, reports on monolaurin, it will be helpful to you as you search for ways to improve your health condition. The information is intended to help you make the best decision for you. 

For more on monolaurin, go to monolaurinresearch.com

ANTIMICROBIAL EFFICACY - HISTORY

• ANTIBACTERIAL 
• The first published article demonstrating GML antimicrobial effects in a peer-reviewed medical journal was in 1972, (Kabara, ‘72). Broad-spectrum in-vitro antibacterial efficacy was shown against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial isolates obtained from superficial skin infections (Carpo, ’07). GML was shown to have synergistic antibacterial activity when combined with an antibiotic (Hess, ‘14). GML was shown to play a role in the antimicrobial activity of mother’s milk (Schlievert, ’19). GML has antibacterial efficacy against difficult-to-treat antibiotic resistant organisms, including Staph. aureus (MRSA). (Alrabiah, ’25; Laowansiri, ’25). Based on its wide spectrum antimicrobial effects, GML was recommended as a preservative that could be used with other antimicrobials (Zhang, ’09). 
• In addition to laboratory in-vitro studies, in-vivo animal and human testing has also demonstrated GML’s inhibitory antimicrobial effects. For example, it is antimicrobial against Gardnerella bacteria when it causes vaginal infections (Strandenberg, ‘10). Topical GML was suggested to be used on mammals as a broad-spectrum microbicide against both Gram+ and Gram- bacteria (Schlievert, ’12; Mueller, ‘15). A topical nonaqueous 5% GML gel was applied in the nasal mucosa and resulted in a 3-log-unit reduction (99.9% killing) of Staph. aureus bacteria. (Schlievert, ’20). 
• GML’s mechanism of antibacterial action is membrane disintegration, which is the same as for viruses. (Schlievert, ’12; Valle-Gonzalez,’18; Yoon, ’19) 
• In spite of these studies, a topical GML antibacterial product is currently not available in the USA. GML is not FDA-approved as an antimicrobial agent. One product containing GML 2%, contains up to 60% ethanol. Ethanol is not recommended to be applied onto cold sores as it can cause excessive drying, irritation, and damage to the skin, which may delay healing and cause scarring. 
• ANTIFUNGAL 
• Several studies have shown antifungal effects of GML. One in-vivo study demonstrated that topical GML is effective against Candida, a fungus that is a common cause of vaginitis (Strandberg, ’10). In a mouse study, GML had shown antifungal effects (Seleem, ’18). A derivative of GML has shown antifungal, as well as antibacterial properties (Schlievert, ’25). 
• There is currently no product available that utilizes GML as an active anti-fungal agent. Undecylenic acid (UDA) is a fatty acid that has been used as a topical antifungal agent since the 1940s. UDA is FDA-approved, but its use has been limited as more effective antifungal agents have replaced it. 
• ANTIVIRAL
• Studies demonstrating the antiviral effects of fats/ lipids, including those in mother’s milk, have been published since 1973. Sarkar, ’73, noted that a GML fraction of human milk caused degradation of the viral envelope. Numerous studies in the 1970s demonstrated antiviral effects of fats/ lipids, including those in mother/s milk: [Fieldsteel, ‘74; Kabara,’78; Welsh, ;79; Kabara, ’80]. In another study, it was shown that the most active antiviral compound in mother’s milk is GML (Hierholzer, ’82). 
• In a 1987 article, 20 fatty acids (medium and long chain fatty acids) and their derivatives were tested for antiviral activity. Amongst these, GML had the highest killing efficacy – i.e., required the lowest concentration for rapid killing. Furthermore, ester derivatives of fatty acids were more potent than the pure fatty acids themselves. (Thormar, ‘87). 
• An additional notable finding in that study was the fact that viral killing was due to rapid viral envelope (i.e., membrane) disruption. “Antiviral fatty acids [i.e., monolaurin] were found to affect the viral envelope... a complete disintegration of the envelope and the viral particles.” 
• One in-vivo animal study demonstrated that topical GML can reduce HIV transmission in the vaginal mucosa (Haase, ’15). 
• Numerous studies since then have demonstrated GML’s antiviral killing efficacy and that it is due to viral envelope (membrane) disintegration. [Ettinger, ’10; Haase, ’15; Welch, ’20; Sinead, ’21; Wedekind, ’21; Baker, ’23; Bench Chem Technical Support Team, ’26] 

• SUMMARY
• In spite of extensive in-vitro data demonstrating rapid viral killing with GML in the lab, as well as an in-vivo animal study that topical GML can be effective against HIV in the vaginal mucosa, GML is not FDA approved for use as a topical antiviral agent.  Whether a monolaurin-based product can be effective in treating a cold sore, genital herpes outbreak or a shingles (herpes) rash has yet to be proven as no clinical study has been published. 
• There are 2 different product categories with monolaurin. 
• Oral Supplements - Because of its in-vitro antimicrobial effects, GML has been recommended by some as an oral antimicrobial agent. It is generally advertised as having immune support, helps fight harmful microorganisms, gentle on stomach and based on “natural lipid science”. However, a literature review did not find a notable antimicrobial effect when GML was taken orally. (Barker, ’19).  
• Topical creams – GML is utilized in some skin care products. However, GML is mainly used as an excipient, such as an emollient, co-emulsifier, and for skin conditioning - it is not used as an antibacterial or antiviral agent. One product available in the USA contains GML 2%, but it has up to 60% ethanol. This product is advertised for use in acne. However, any product such as this one, containing ethanol, is not recommended for cold sores as ethanol could cause excessive drying, irritation, and damage to the skin, which may delay healing and even cause scarring. Typically, cold sores do not cause any scarring. 

MONOLAURIN SAFETY 

• GML is considered GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for oral administration by the FDA. Furthermore, GML has been used as a skin care excipient in topical skin care products for many years. There have been no documented toxicities or side effects with GML for any product that resulted in the discontinuation of its use, indicating a long history of safety. Finally, numerous animal and human studies have shown complete safety, even with high doses and long duration of GML application.
• In one study, GML 5% applied liberally throughout the vaginal mucosa for 6 months was shown to have no side effects. (Schlievert, ‘08) This indicates safety even with prolonged topical application. 
• In another study, GML 5% gel applied topically to the vaginal mucosa had shown antimicrobial effects against pathogenic Gardnerella bacteria and Candida fungus, but had no effect on Lactobacilli, a bacterial species normally present in the vaginal mucosa that is necessary for maintaining a healthy mucosa. (Strandberg, ’10). In other words, GML kills bad bacteria in the vaginal mucosa, but spares the beneficial bacteria normally present. 
• In another study, GML 5%, non-aqueous formulation applied to fresh incisions demonstrated no side effects or toxicity but did demonstrate antibacterial effects against several Gram+ and Gram- organisms. It also showed anti-inflammatory effects. (Mueller, ‘15). 
• In another study, GML 35% was applied topically throughout the vaginal mucosa with a large volume. There were no significant effects on the vaginal flora or cytokine (MIP3α and IL-8) levels. This study indicated that even a high dose GML, 35% w/w concentration, did not induce any local adverse effects, hence it was shown to be safe (Kirtane, ‘17). 
• In yet another study, GML 5% nonaqueous applied to the nasal mucosa in humans demonstrated no negative side effects (Schlievert, ’20).  

• SUMMARY
• Monolaurin applied topically onto mucosa with high concentrations, up to 35%, and for long duration, up to 6 months, has shown no demonstrable side effects, indicating complete safety with its use as a topical agent. 

• REFERENCES - MONOLAURIN ANTIMICROBIAL EFFICACY & MEMBRANE DISRUPTION

• Alrabiah MA, Unexpected Efficacy of Albumin-Bound Glycerol Monolaurate Against Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Isolates: A Time-Kill Assay Study. Infect Drug Resist. 2025 Mar 24;18:1581-1593. doi:10.2147/IDR.S502165. 
• Baker, S, et al; Efficacy of breast milk components against microbial pathogens to combat drug-resistance. The Microbe. 2023; Vol: 100010. ISSN 2950-1946 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.microb.2023.100010.
• Barker LA, et al; The Clinical Use of Monolaurin as a Dietary Supplement: A Review of the Literature. J Chiropr Med. 2019 Dec;18(4):305-310. doi: 10.1016/j.jcm.2019.02.004. 
• Bench Chem Technical Support Team. Date: April 2026 
• Validating the inhibitory effect of monolaurin on specific viral strains “monolaurin demonstrates significant potential as a broad-spectrum antiviral agent,…..”
• https://pdf.benchchem.com/1671/Validating_the_inhibitory_effect_of_monolaurin_on_specific_viral_strains.pdf 
• Carpo BG, et al; Novel antibacterial activity of monolaurin compared with conventional antibiotics against organisms from skin infections: an in vitro study. J Drugs Dermatol. 2007 Oct;6(10):991-8. PMID: 17966176. 
•  Dresser L, et al; Tween-20 Induces the Structural Remodeling of Single Lipid Vesicles. J Phys Chem Lett. 2022 Jun 9;13(23):5341-5350. doi: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.2c00704. 
• Ettinger, Marcus. Aug 16, 2010, Biofilm, Gastritis, H. pylori, Herpes, Infection, Shingles 
• Fieldsteel, AH, 1974. Non-specific antiviral substances in human milk active against arbovirus and murine leukemia virus. Cancer Res. 34:712-715. 
• Haase AT, Schlievert PM, et al; Glycerol Monolaurate Microbicide Protection against Repeat High-Dose SIV Vaginal Challenge. PLoS One. 2015 Jun 9;10(6):e0129465. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129465. 
• Hess DJ, et al; Antibacterial synergy of glycerol monolaurate and aminoglycosides in Staphylococcus aureus biofilms. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2014 Nov;58(11):6970-3. doi: 10.1128/AAC.03672-14. 
• Hierholzer JC, Kabara JJ; In-vitro Effects of Monolaurin Compounds on Enveloped RNA and DNA Viruses. J Food Saf. 1982 Mar;4(1):1-12. 
• Kabara JJ, et al; Fatty acids and derivatives as antimicrobial agents. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 1972 Jul;2(1):23-8. doi: 10.1128/AAC.2.1.23. 
• Kabara, JJ; Fatty acids and derivatives as antimicrobial agents: a review, in Symposium on the Pharmacological Effect of Lipids (ed. J.J. Kabara), The American Oil Chemists' Society, Champaign, IL, 1978; USA, pp. 1–14.
• Kabara, JJ, Lipids as host-resistance factors of human milk. Nutr Rev. 1980; 38:65-73. 
• Laowansiri M, et al; Monolaurin inhibits antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in patients with atopic dermatitis. Sci Rep. 2025 Jul 2;15(1):23180. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-05667-w.
• Mueller EA, Schlievert PM. Non-aqueous glycerol monolaurate gel exhibits antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. PLoS One. 2015 Mar 23;10(3):e0120280. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120280.
• Sarkar, NH, et al; Effect of human milk on the mouse mammary tumor virus. Cancer Res. 1973; 33:626-629. 
• Schlievert PM, Peterson ML. Glycerol monolaurate antibacterial activity in broth and biofilm cultures. PLoS One. 2012;7(7):e40350. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040350.
• Schlievert, P.M, et al. Glycerol Monolaurate Contributes to the Antimicrobial and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Human Milk. Sci Rep 9, 14550 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-51130-y
• Schlievert PM, Peterson ML. Decolonization of Human Anterior Nares of Staphylococcus aureus with Use of a Glycerol Monolaurate Nonaqueous Gel. mSphere. 2020 Jul 29;5(4):e00552-20. doi: 10.1128/mSphere.00552-20. 
• Schlievert PM, et alReardan DT. Antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activity of glycerol dithionomonolaurate, an analog of glycerol monolaurate. mSphere. 2025 Oct 29;10(10):e0031825. doi: 10.1128/msphere.00318-25.
• Seleem D, et al; In Vivo Antifungal Activity of Monolaurin against Candida albicans Biofilms. Biol Pharm Bull. 2018;41(8):1299-1302. doi: 10.1248/bpb.b18-00256. 
• Sinead, T, et al; Milk-derived anti-infectives and their potential to combat bacterial and viral infection. J Functional Food. 2021; 81: 104442, ISSN 1756-4646. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2021.104442
• Strandberg KL, Schlievert PM, et al; Glycerol monolaurate inhibits Candida and Gardnerella vaginalis in vitro and in vivo but not Lactobacillus. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2010 Feb;54(2):597-601. doi: 10.1128/AAC.01151-09.
• Thormar H, et al; Inactivation of enveloped viruses and killing of cells by fatty acids and monoglycerides. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 1987 Jan;31(1):27-31. doi: 10.1128/AAC.31.1.27. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC174645/
• Valle-González ER, et al; Characterizing How Acidic pH Conditions Affect the Membrane-Disruptive Activities of Lauric Acid and Glycerol Monolaurate. Langmuir. 2018 Nov 13;34(45):13745-13753. doi: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.8b02536. 
• Wedekind SIS, Shenker NS. Antiviral Properties of Human Milk. Microorganisms. 2021 Mar 31;9(4):715.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33807146/
• Welch JL, Xiang J, … Schlievert PM, et al; Glycerol Monolaurate, an Analogue to a Factor Secreted by Lactobacillus, Is Virucidal against Enveloped Viruses, Including HIV-1. mBio. 2020 May 5;11(3):e00686-20. doi: 10.1128/mBio.00686-20. 
• Welsh, JKM, et al Effect of antiviral lipids, heat, and freezing on the activity of viruses in human milk. J Infect Dis. May, 1979; 140:322-328. 
• Yoon, BK, et al; Characterizing the Membrane-Disruptive Behavior of Dodecylglycerol Using Supported Lipid Bilayers. Langmuir.  2019; 35, 9: 3568–3575. 
• Zhang, H, et al; Antibacterial Interactions of Monolaurin with Commonly Used Antimicrobials and Food Components. J Food Sci. 2009; 74: M418-M421. 

• REFERENCES - MONOLAURIN SAFETY

• Kirtane AR, et al; Evaluation of Vaginal Drug Levels and Safety of Locally Administered Glycerol Monolaurate Cream in Rhesus Macaques. J Pharm Sci. 2017 Jul;106(7):1821-1827. doi: 10.1016/j.xphs.2017.03.030. 
• Mueller EA, Schlievert PM. Non-aqueous glycerol monolaurate gel exhibits antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. PLoS One. 2015 Mar 23;10(3):e0120280. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120280.  
• Schlievert PM, et al; Glycerol monolaurate does not alter rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) vaginal lactobacilli and is safe for chronic use. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2008 Dec;52(12):4448-54. doi: 10.1128/AAC.00989-08. 
• Schlievert PM, Peterson ML. Decolonization of Human Anterior Nares of Staphylococcus aureus with Use of a Glycerol Monolaurate Nonaqueous Gel. mSphere. 2020 Jul 29;5(4):e00552-20. doi: 10.1128/mSphere.00552-20. 
• Strandberg KL, Schlievert PM, et al; Glycerol monolaurate inhibits Candida and Gardnerella vaginalis in vitro and in vivo but not Lactobacillus. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2010 Feb;54(2):597-601. doi: 10.1128/AAC.01151-09.