L-citrulline is converted to l- arginine in the body and l-arginine has been known to cause herpes outbreaks in people who have the virus. should l-citrulline be avoided by people who have hsv-1?

Yes, if you want to lower arginine level you have to avoid citrulline supplement. High arginine/lysine may exacerbate herpes outbreak; however, taking lysine supplement is not strongly recommended. Adult can produce arginine but not lysine which is an essential amino acid and we have to get it from foods. In general, avoid a diet high in citrulline and arginine may lower the HSV outbreak.