We investigated how an ascorbic acid-based solution could help treat recurrent cold sores, also known as mucocutaneous herpes. This study was carefully designed as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, which helps ensure the results are reliable and trustworthy.
Participants used a strong solution of Ascoxal, rich in vitamin C, applied to their cold sores multiple times on the first day of the outbreak. We monitored various symptoms daily, including the severity of scabs, redness, and blisters, comparing the experiences of those using the vitamin C solution to a placebo group.
Our findings were promising: the active treatment resulted in fewer days with scabbing and less severe symptoms overall. Moreover, those using the vitamin C solution showed reduced persistence of scabs compared to the placebo group, along with a lower frequency of detected herpes virus after treatment.
In conclusion, this brief course of vitamin C treatment appears to have significant clinical benefits against cold sores, opening the door for future research on more extensive and frequent treatment regimes.
Read More
8
Vitamin C shows potential for cold sores
A clinical pilot study of lignin--ascorbic acid combination treatment of herpes simplex virus.
We conducted a clinical pilot study to evaluate the effects of a combination treatment of lignin—a substance derived from pine cones—mixed with vitamin C on cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Our study included 48 healthy participants, ranging from 4 to 61 years old, who had active lesions of HSV-1.
Participants received a daily dose of the lignin-ascorbic acid treatment for one month. Notably, those who began the treatment within the first 48 hours after the onset of symptoms did not develop typical cold sore lesions. For others who started later, we observed a shorter duration of cold sores and less severe symptoms compared to their previous outbreaks.
Many participants reported a reduction in both the severity and frequency of their cold sore episodes during treatment. Although the results suggest some benefits of this combination treatment, it’s important to note that vitamin C was part of the blend, making it challenging to evaluate its individual effect on cold sores directly.
Thus, while the combination of lignin and vitamin C appears promising for preventing and treating HSV-1 infection, further studies isolating vitamin C's effects would be helpful to understand its specific role in managing cold sores.
Read More
8
Potential effects on cold sores
The use of water-soluble bioflavonoid-ascorbic acid complex in the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis.
We evaluated the effectiveness of a water-soluble complex combining bioflavonoids and ascorbic acid, which is commonly known as vitamin C, for treating cold sores caused by recurrent herpes labialis. The study involved 50 episodes of cold sores, with patients receiving different dosages of the vitamin C and bioflavonoid combination, while others were given a lactose placebo.
The regimen was followed for three days after participants felt the initial symptoms. We noted that the combination appeared to reduce the formation of blisters and helped maintain the integrity of the vesicular membrane. The best results came when treatment started during the early warning signs of an outbreak, leading to symptom relief in an average of about 4.2 days with the lower dosage.
Importantly, throughout the study, no adverse reactions were reported by participants. Although the combination product shows promise, it was difficult to isolate the specific impact of vitamin C alone due to its synergy with bioflavonoids.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Reduces cold sores
140 people found this helpful
A fantastic option for vitamin C. I generally purchase various types, particularly those with bioflavonoids. Not all ascorbic acid is effective, but this one with bioquercetin delivers noticeable results. If I'm coming down with a cold, taking a high dose can often prevent illness. My cold sores diminish within a day. The tablets are small and can be easily split.
Read More
9
Effective for cold sores
17 people found this helpful
One of my favourites. This vitamin C product really works for me. I typically try different brands, but this one with bioquercetin stands out. When I catch a cold, taking a hefty dose helps stave off the illness. My cold sores usually clear up within a day. Tablets are small and easy to divide. Please give a like!
Read More
9
Speeds cold sore recovery
1 people found this helpful
This Vitamin C with Bio-Quercetin Photosome is excellent. It supports my immune system and combats free radicals. Since taking this supplement, my recovery from colds has been rapid, and it has helped in managing my cold sores. Highly recommended.
We investigated how an ascorbic acid-based solution could help treat recurrent cold sores, also known as mucocutaneous herpes. This study was carefully designed as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, which helps ensure the results are reliable and trustworthy.
Participants used a strong solution of Ascoxal, rich in vitamin C, applied to their cold sores multiple times on the first day of the outbreak. We monitored various symptoms daily, including the severity of scabs, redness, and blisters, comparing the experiences of those using the vitamin C solution to a placebo group.
Our findings were promising: the active treatment resulted in fewer days with scabbing and less severe symptoms overall. Moreover, those using the vitamin C solution showed reduced persistence of scabs compared to the placebo group, along with a lower frequency of detected herpes virus after treatment.
In conclusion, this brief course of vitamin C treatment appears to have significant clinical benefits against cold sores, opening the door for future research on more extensive and frequent treatment regimes.
Read More
8
Vitamin C shows potential for cold sores
A clinical pilot study of lignin--ascorbic acid combination treatment of herpes simplex virus.
We conducted a clinical pilot study to evaluate the effects of a combination treatment of lignin—a substance derived from pine cones—mixed with vitamin C on cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Our study included 48 healthy participants, ranging from 4 to 61 years old, who had active lesions of HSV-1.
Participants received a daily dose of the lignin-ascorbic acid treatment for one month. Notably, those who began the treatment within the first 48 hours after the onset of symptoms did not develop typical cold sore lesions. For others who started later, we observed a shorter duration of cold sores and less severe symptoms compared to their previous outbreaks.
Many participants reported a reduction in both the severity and frequency of their cold sore episodes during treatment. Although the results suggest some benefits of this combination treatment, it’s important to note that vitamin C was part of the blend, making it challenging to evaluate its individual effect on cold sores directly.
Thus, while the combination of lignin and vitamin C appears promising for preventing and treating HSV-1 infection, further studies isolating vitamin C's effects would be helpful to understand its specific role in managing cold sores.
Read More
8
Potential effects on cold sores
The use of water-soluble bioflavonoid-ascorbic acid complex in the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis.
We evaluated the effectiveness of a water-soluble complex combining bioflavonoids and ascorbic acid, which is commonly known as vitamin C, for treating cold sores caused by recurrent herpes labialis. The study involved 50 episodes of cold sores, with patients receiving different dosages of the vitamin C and bioflavonoid combination, while others were given a lactose placebo.
The regimen was followed for three days after participants felt the initial symptoms. We noted that the combination appeared to reduce the formation of blisters and helped maintain the integrity of the vesicular membrane. The best results came when treatment started during the early warning signs of an outbreak, leading to symptom relief in an average of about 4.2 days with the lower dosage.
Importantly, throughout the study, no adverse reactions were reported by participants. Although the combination product shows promise, it was difficult to isolate the specific impact of vitamin C alone due to its synergy with bioflavonoids.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 6 Reviews
8.7
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Reduces cold sores
140 people found this helpful
A fantastic option for vitamin C. I generally purchase various types, particularly those with bioflavonoids. Not all ascorbic acid is effective, but this one with bioquercetin delivers noticeable results. If I'm coming down with a cold, taking a high dose can often prevent illness. My cold sores diminish within a day. The tablets are small and can be easily split.
Read More
9
Effective for cold sores
17 people found this helpful
One of my favourites. This vitamin C product really works for me. I typically try different brands, but this one with bioquercetin stands out. When I catch a cold, taking a hefty dose helps stave off the illness. My cold sores usually clear up within a day. Tablets are small and easy to divide. Please give a like!
Read More
9
Speeds cold sore recovery
1 people found this helpful
This Vitamin C with Bio-Quercetin Photosome is excellent. It supports my immune system and combats free radicals. Since taking this supplement, my recovery from colds has been rapid, and it has helped in managing my cold sores. Highly recommended.
Read More
9
Stops cold sore outbreaks
1 people found this helpful
Thanks to vitamin C, my cold sores either don’t appear at all or heal much quicker, often within a day. Previously, they lasted 1.5 weeks. If I get cold or wet, this vitamin helps prevent illness. Highly recommend it!
Read More
7.5
Prevents cold symptoms
7 people found this helpful
I've tried several brands of vitamin C but would still get flu occasionally. Since trying Life Extension, I've rarely had flu. When symptoms strike, I take one in the morning and one before bed, and within a few days, I'm symptom-free. This is my second bottle, and I appreciate the effectiveness in preventing cold sores.
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips, although they can also occur in other areas of the face. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), primarily HSV-1, and are highly contagious. The initial outbreak may be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a general feeling of malaise. Once infected, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate, leading to recurring outbreaks, often triggered by stress, illness, or exposure to sunlight.
Treatment options for cold sores often focus on alleviating symptoms and speeding up healing. Over-the-counter creams containing antiviral medication like docosanol can help reduce the duration of an outbreak when applied early on. Prescription medications may be recommended for more severe cases. Home remedies, such as applying ice, using aloe vera, or taking lysine supplements, may also offer some relief. Prevention strategies include avoiding known triggers and practicing good hygiene, like not sharing utensils or personal items with infected individuals.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in numerous bodily functions. As an essential nutrient, it contributes to the growth and repair of tissues in the body, and it is vital for the production of collagen, an important protein that helps maintain skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Additionally, Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, which means it helps combat free radicals—unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and contribute to various chronic diseases.
Moreover, Vitamin C enhances iron absorption from plant-based foods, making it a vital component for those following vegetarian or vegan diets. While many people get sufficient Vitamin C from a well-balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables like oranges, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, and bell peppers, some individuals might require supplementation. It's generally recommended to stay within the daily intake guidelines, as excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances. Overall, Vitamin C is not just a skincare celebrity—it's a fundamental part of maintaining overall health and well-being.
Vitamin C is often touted for its immune-boosting properties, but when it comes to treating cold sores, the evidence is nuanced. Cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus, typically require antiviral treatments for effective relief. However, some studies suggest that Vitamin C, due to its antioxidant properties, may play a supportive role in skin health and wound healing, which could theoretically help with the healing process of cold sores. While maintaining a healthy intake of Vitamin C can support overall immune function, it's not a stand-alone treatment for active outbreaks.
For those looking to alleviate cold sores, over-the-counter antiviral creams or prescription medications are generally recommended. Incorporating Vitamin C-rich foods into your diet or taking supplements might help strengthen your immune responses in the long run, but it's best to consult a healthcare professional for targeted strategies tailored to your situation. Ultimately, while Vitamin C has beneficial properties, it's essential to rely on proven treatments for cold sores for the most effective relief.
Based on user reviews, many people report experiencing noticeable improvements in their cold sores within a very short timeframe. Specifically, several users mentioned that their cold sores tend to diminish or clear up within just a day of using the supplement. For example, one reviewer stated, "my cold sores diminish within a day" when taking a high dose of vitamin C with bioquercetin Read Review. Another user echoed this sentiment, claiming that their cold sores "usually clear up within a day" after taking the same supplement Read Review.
Additionally, some users noted an improvement in the duration of their cold sore outbreaks, stating that since using the vitamin C supplement, their cold sores either don’t appear at all or heal much quicker than before, with one reviewer reporting a significant reduction from lasting 1.5 weeks to now healing "often within a day" Read Review. Overall, while individual results may vary, it seems that many users have experienced rapid relief from cold sores with this supplement.
Recent scientific research suggests that vitamin C, especially when combined with other compounds, shows promise in the treatment of cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). A pilot study investigated a treatment combining lignin and vitamin C and found that those who started the treatment within the first 48 hours had a significant reduction in the severity and duration of outbreaks compared to their previous episodes. This highlights the potential efficacy of early intervention with vitamin C-based treatments, although further studies are needed to understand vitamin C's individual effects better [1].
In addition, another study rigorously evaluated a topical vitamin C solution, Ascoxal, and demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing the duration of cold sore symptoms and the severity of scabbing when applied at the onset of an outbreak. Participants experienced fewer days with scabs and lower frequencies of the herpes virus detected after treatment, indicating considerable clinical benefits. Another study focusing on a combination of vitamin C and bioflavonoids reported decreased blister formation and quicker symptom relief when treatments began at the early signs of an outbreak [2][3]. Overall, while evidence points to the potential benefits of vitamin C against cold sores, more research is needed to isolate its effects fully.
Users report a range of improvements in their cold sore symptoms after using vitamin C with bioquercetin. Many have noted that their cold sores diminish or clear up within a day, which has been a consistent theme in the reviews. One reviewer emphasized, "my cold sores diminish within a day," highlighting the rapid relief experienced Read Review. Another shared a similar experience, stating that their cold sores "usually clear up within a day" when taking the supplement Read Review.
Additionally, several users have reported a reduction in the frequency and duration of their outbreaks. For example, one user mentioned that since starting this vitamin C supplement, their cold sores either don't appear at all or heal much faster, noting a significant reduction in healing time from 1.5 weeks to "often within a day" Read Review. Overall, while individual outcomes will vary, the anecdotal evidence from these users suggests that this vitamin C product has provided effective relief for many dealing with cold sores.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining this vitamin C supplement with bioquercetin alongside other supplements or lifestyle strategies to manage cold sores. One reviewer noted that a high dose can often prevent illness when they feel a cold coming on, which indirectly supports the healing process for cold sores as well Read Review. Another user mentioned taking the supplement both morning and before bed at the onset of cold symptoms and observed significant relief not only from the cold but also from cold sores, showing how effectively it works in tandem with other wellness practices Read Review.
Additionally, several users noted that since incorporating the vitamin C with bioquercetin into their regimen, their cold sore outbreaks either became less frequent or healed much faster, with one individual stating that they now heal in "often within a day" instead of lasting for weeks Read Review. This suggests that the antioxidant properties of this supplement can provide beneficial results when combined with other treatments for cold sore management.
The optimal dose of Vitamin C for treating cold sores is not definitively established, but some studies indicate beneficial effects when used in conjunction with other compounds. For instance, a randomized controlled trial utilizing a strong formulation of ascorbic acid showed that applying the solution multiple times on the first day of a cold sore outbreak resulted in fewer days of scabbing and less severe symptoms overall [2]. Participants reported clinical benefits, suggesting that higher concentrations of Vitamin C may enhance the treatment's efficacy during an outbreak.
In another study, patients received various dosages of a Vitamin C and bioflavonoid combination, which showed promise particularly when treatment started at the first signs of symptoms. While the best outcomes were noted even with lower doses, specific Vitamin C doses were not isolated due to the combined treatment nature [3]. Therefore, while there is evidence supporting the use of Vitamin C for cold sores, more research is needed to determine a standard dosage for maximizing its effectiveness.
9
Reduces cold sores
140 people found this helpful
A fantastic option for vitamin C. I generally purchase various types, particularly those with bioflavonoids. Not all ascorbic acid is effective, but this one with bioquercetin delivers noticeable results. If I'm coming down with a cold, taking a high dose can often prevent illness. My cold sores diminish within a day. The tablets are small and can be easily split.
9
Effective for cold sores
17 people found this helpful
One of my favourites. This vitamin C product really works for me. I typically try different brands, but this one with bioquercetin stands out. When I catch a cold, taking a hefty dose helps stave off the illness. My cold sores usually clear up within a day. Tablets are small and easy to divide. Please give a like!
9
Stops cold sore outbreaks
1 people found this helpful
Thanks to vitamin C, my cold sores either don’t appear at all or heal much quicker, often within a day. Previously, they lasted 1.5 weeks. If I get cold or wet, this vitamin helps prevent illness. Highly recommend it!
7.5
Prevents cold symptoms
7 people found this helpful
I've tried several brands of vitamin C but would still get flu occasionally. Since trying Life Extension, I've rarely had flu. When symptoms strike, I take one in the morning and one before bed, and within a few days, I'm symptom-free. This is my second bottle, and I appreciate the effectiveness in preventing cold sores.
8
Vitamin C shows potential for cold sores
A clinical pilot study of lignin--ascorbic acid combination treatment of herpes simplex virus.
We conducted a clinical pilot study to evaluate the effects of a combination treatment of lignin—a substance derived from pine cones—mixed with vitamin C on cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Our study included 48 healthy participants, ranging from 4 to 61 years old, who had active lesions of HSV-1.
Participants received a daily dose of the lignin-ascorbic acid treatment for one month. Notably, those who began the treatment within the first 48 hours after the onset of symptoms did not develop typical cold sore lesions. For others who started later, we observed a shorter duration of cold sores and less severe symptoms compared to their previous outbreaks.
Many participants reported a reduction in both the severity and frequency of their cold sore episodes during treatment. Although the results suggest some benefits of this combination treatment, it’s important to note that vitamin C was part of the blend, making it challenging to evaluate its individual effect on cold sores directly.
Thus, while the combination of lignin and vitamin C appears promising for preventing and treating HSV-1 infection, further studies isolating vitamin C's effects would be helpful to understand its specific role in managing cold sores.
9
Vitamin C alleviates cold sores
Topical treatment of recurrent mucocutaneous herpes with ascorbic acid-containing solution.
We investigated how an ascorbic acid-based solution could help treat recurrent cold sores, also known as mucocutaneous herpes. This study was carefully designed as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, which helps ensure the results are reliable and trustworthy.
Participants used a strong solution of Ascoxal, rich in vitamin C, applied to their cold sores multiple times on the first day of the outbreak. We monitored various symptoms daily, including the severity of scabs, redness, and blisters, comparing the experiences of those using the vitamin C solution to a placebo group.
Our findings were promising: the active treatment resulted in fewer days with scabbing and less severe symptoms overall. Moreover, those using the vitamin C solution showed reduced persistence of scabs compared to the placebo group, along with a lower frequency of detected herpes virus after treatment.
In conclusion, this brief course of vitamin C treatment appears to have significant clinical benefits against cold sores, opening the door for future research on more extensive and frequent treatment regimes.
8
Potential effects on cold sores
The use of water-soluble bioflavonoid-ascorbic acid complex in the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis.
We evaluated the effectiveness of a water-soluble complex combining bioflavonoids and ascorbic acid, which is commonly known as vitamin C, for treating cold sores caused by recurrent herpes labialis. The study involved 50 episodes of cold sores, with patients receiving different dosages of the vitamin C and bioflavonoid combination, while others were given a lactose placebo.
The regimen was followed for three days after participants felt the initial symptoms. We noted that the combination appeared to reduce the formation of blisters and helped maintain the integrity of the vesicular membrane. The best results came when treatment started during the early warning signs of an outbreak, leading to symptom relief in an average of about 4.2 days with the lower dosage.
Importantly, throughout the study, no adverse reactions were reported by participants. Although the combination product shows promise, it was difficult to isolate the specific impact of vitamin C alone due to its synergy with bioflavonoids.
References
Lopez BS, Yamamoto M, Utsumi K, Aratsu C, Sakagami H. A clinical pilot study of lignin--ascorbic acid combination treatment of herpes simplex virus. In Vivo. 2009;23:1011.
Hovi T, Hirvimies A, Stenvik M, Vuola E, Pippuri R. Topical treatment of recurrent mucocutaneous herpes with ascorbic acid-containing solution. Antiviral Res. 1995;27:263.
Terezhalmy GT, Bottomley WK, Pelleu GB. The use of water-soluble bioflavonoid-ascorbic acid complex in the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol. 1978;45:56.