We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to explore the effectiveness of a zinc oxide/glycine cream in treating cold sores caused by facial and circumoral herpes. By dividing 46 participants into two groups, one receiving the zinc treatment and the other a placebo, we aimed to measure how this formulation affected the duration and severity of cold sore symptoms.
Our results were quite promising! Participants who began using the zinc oxide/glycine cream within the first 24 hours of noticing symptoms experienced cold sore lesions that lasted only an average of 5 days, compared to 6.5 days for those on the placebo. Additionally, we noticed a significant reduction in the overall severity of their symptoms, including blistering, soreness, itching, and tingling.
As for side effects, subjects treated with the zinc cream experienced only minor and reversible issues typical of ionic zinc salt solutions. This indicates that the zinc oxide/glycine cream is not only effective but also safe for treating cold sores, presenting a valuable option for many people seeking relief from this common condition.
Read More
9
Zinc gel aids cold sore healing
[Clinical double-blind trial of topical zinc sulfate for herpes labialis recidivans].
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to assess the impact of zinc sulfate gel on cold sores, specifically herpes labialis recidivans. In our study, patients treated with zinc sulfate gel, known as Virudermin Gel, experienced significantly reduced symptoms and faster healing compared to those who received just the gel without zinc.
The results were promising; the patients using the zinc gel reported less discomfort, and their sores healed more quickly. Importantly, this treatment showed no significant side effects, making it a safe option for managing cold sores. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of zinc sulfate helped prevent any superinfections, adding another layer of benefit to its use.
Overall, our exploration into zinc’s effectiveness provided valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers seeking reliable cold sore treatment options. With simple application and proven results, zinc sulfate gel could become a go-to remedy for those frequently struggling with herpes labialis recidivans.
Read More
8
Zinc treatment helps cold sores
Recurrent herpes labialis: a pilot study of the efficacy of zinc therapy.
We aimed to understand how zinc might affect the occurrence and duration of cold sores, also known as herpes labialis. In our study, we treated 20 patients, mostly women with an average age of 26.6, who experienced more than six episodes of cold sores each year. They received zinc sulphate at a dose of 22.5 mg twice daily during specific months over a year while we monitored their symptoms for 12 months.
Our results were promising. Patients reported a decrease in the frequency of cold sore episodes, averaging fewer than four instances per year. Moreover, the duration of these episodes was also shortened to around 5.7 days, significantly less than usual for these conditions.
Thus, we can say that systemic zinc sulphate seemed to effectively reduce both the number of cold sore outbreaks and the recovery time. This suggests that zinc might be a beneficial option for individuals who struggle with recurrent cold sores.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Effective remedy
This cool brand offers zinc combined with manganese, and it’s naturally fermented with numerous organic certifications. At the first sign of a cold, I take a pill and feel all symptoms vanish remarkably. During the cold season, I complete a one-month course. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Read More
6
Improved lips
1 people found this helpful
I discovered this supplement on social media and it’s said the fermentation helps reduce issues compared to regular zinc. I bought it for my chapped lips during winter, as no lip cream seems effective. Although it's been just a day, my lips haven't peeled this morning. There's still room for improvement, but I'm encouraged to keep taking it. The dosage is manageable, with one tablet daily being enough, though two can help if you're experiencing cold symptoms. The pill size wasn't large, which is a positive.
Read More
7.5
Organic relief
The product has good packaging and the organic label instils confidence. I take it alongside vitamin C whenever I sense a cold coming on, and it has a significant impact. If there's a special offer, I will repurchase it.
We explored the connection between zinc levels and recurrent herpes labialis (RHL), commonly known as cold sores. In a study involving 80 individuals, we compared the salivary zinc levels of healthy people with those experiencing RHL during both the acute and convalescent phases.
The findings revealed that patients in the acute phase had significantly lower zinc levels (160.8 ng/ml) compared to when they were recovering (205.7 ng/ml). Both those phases showed lower zinc levels than the healthy individuals' average. This suggests that zinc levels are not just lower when cold sores are present, but also improve after the lesions heal.
Our results indicate that maintaining adequate zinc levels might be beneficial for people suffering from cold sores. Incorporating zinc supplements could play a role in both treating and preventing these uncomfortable outbreaks. We found that increasing serum zinc might help RHL patients, shedding light on a potential supportive treatment strategy for cold sores.
Read More
9
Zinc may relieve cold sores
Safety and effectiveness of an L-lysine, zinc, and herbal-based product on the treatment of facial and circumoral herpes.
We conducted a small pilot study to investigate how a combination of L-lysine, zinc, and herbal ingredients could help treat cold sores caused by the Herpes simplex virus. Our goal was to observe the changes in symptoms such as itching, burning, and soreness among participants over the course of treatment.
Thirty individuals, split evenly between genders, participated in our open-label study. We monitored their symptoms through various methods, including self-reported outcomes, photographs, and daily diaries. By the sixth day of treatment, most participants showed considerable improvement, with some experiencing full resolution of their symptoms.
While we didn't isolate the effect of zinc alone, its inclusion in the treatment mix seems promising. By the end of our study, we found that 87 percent of participants had improved symptomatically, which indicates that the combination treatment may effectively relieve cold sore symptoms. Importantly, no adverse effects were reported during the study, which adds to our understanding of these treatments' safety.
Read More
9
Zinc cream alleviates cold sores
A randomized clinical trial on the treatment of oral herpes with topical zinc oxide/glycine.
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to explore the effectiveness of a zinc oxide/glycine cream in treating cold sores caused by facial and circumoral herpes. By dividing 46 participants into two groups, one receiving the zinc treatment and the other a placebo, we aimed to measure how this formulation affected the duration and severity of cold sore symptoms.
Our results were quite promising! Participants who began using the zinc oxide/glycine cream within the first 24 hours of noticing symptoms experienced cold sore lesions that lasted only an average of 5 days, compared to 6.5 days for those on the placebo. Additionally, we noticed a significant reduction in the overall severity of their symptoms, including blistering, soreness, itching, and tingling.
As for side effects, subjects treated with the zinc cream experienced only minor and reversible issues typical of ionic zinc salt solutions. This indicates that the zinc oxide/glycine cream is not only effective but also safe for treating cold sores, presenting a valuable option for many people seeking relief from this common condition.
Read More
9
Zinc gel aids cold sore healing
[Clinical double-blind trial of topical zinc sulfate for herpes labialis recidivans].
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to assess the impact of zinc sulfate gel on cold sores, specifically herpes labialis recidivans. In our study, patients treated with zinc sulfate gel, known as Virudermin Gel, experienced significantly reduced symptoms and faster healing compared to those who received just the gel without zinc.
The results were promising; the patients using the zinc gel reported less discomfort, and their sores healed more quickly. Importantly, this treatment showed no significant side effects, making it a safe option for managing cold sores. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of zinc sulfate helped prevent any superinfections, adding another layer of benefit to its use.
Overall, our exploration into zinc’s effectiveness provided valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers seeking reliable cold sore treatment options. With simple application and proven results, zinc sulfate gel could become a go-to remedy for those frequently struggling with herpes labialis recidivans.
Read More
8
Pomegranate extract reduces inflammation
Anti-inflammatory activity of Punica granatum L. (Pomegranate) rind extracts applied topically to ex vivo skin.
We examined how the combination of pomegranate rind extract (PRE) and zinc impacts cold sores, particularly focusing on inflammation. By applying these substances to ex vivo porcine skin, we were able to assess their ability to modulate COX-2, a key player in the inflammation process.
Our findings revealed that the topical application of PRE significantly reduced COX-2 levels in the skin after just six hours and maintained this effect for 24 hours. When we combined PRE with zinc, the results matched those of PRE alone, indicating that zinc didn't add extra benefits to inflammation control when used together.
However, we also noted that zinc alone showed no significant anti-inflammatory effect, highlighting that the benefits we observed were primarily due to the pomegranate extract rather than zinc. This suggests that while zinc is commonly thought beneficial for treating cold sores, its impact on inflammation might be limited unless paired with more potent anti-inflammatory agents like PRE.
In conclusion, pomegranates present a promising approach to managing inflammation and pain associated with cold sores, but zinc’s standalone effectiveness requires reconsideration.
This cool brand offers zinc combined with manganese, and it’s naturally fermented with numerous organic certifications. At the first sign of a cold, I take a pill and feel all symptoms vanish remarkably. During the cold season, I complete a one-month course. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Read More
6
Improved lips
1 people found this helpful
I discovered this supplement on social media and it’s said the fermentation helps reduce issues compared to regular zinc. I bought it for my chapped lips during winter, as no lip cream seems effective. Although it's been just a day, my lips haven't peeled this morning. There's still room for improvement, but I'm encouraged to keep taking it. The dosage is manageable, with one tablet daily being enough, though two can help if you're experiencing cold symptoms. The pill size wasn't large, which is a positive.
Read More
7.5
Organic relief
The product has good packaging and the organic label instils confidence. I take it alongside vitamin C whenever I sense a cold coming on, and it has a significant impact. If there's a special offer, I will repurchase it.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Zinc is a versatile metal known for its various applications in industry and health. It is a bluish-white metallic element represented by the symbol Zn and atomic number 30 on the periodic table. Zinc is primarily used for galvanizing steel to prevent rusting, in the manufacturing of alloys, and as a component in batteries. Additionally, zinc plays a crucial role in biological processes, making it an essential trace element in the human diet. It is involved in immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, and DNA synthesis, highlighting its importance in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Zinc is often touted as a potential remedy for cold sores, primarily due to its immune-boosting properties and its role in skin health. Research suggests that zinc may help reduce the severity and duration of cold sore outbreaks, as it can inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus, the virus responsible for cold sores. It is available in various forms, including topical ointments and oral supplements. When applied directly to the affected area, zinc oxide or zinc sulfate creams may help soothe the skin and promote healing.
However, it's important to note that while zinc may aid in managing cold sores, it is not a cure. Results can vary from person to person, and some may find topical treatments to be more effective than others. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen, as they can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and stress management, can further support your immune system in preventing and managing outbreaks effectively.
Based on user reviews, the time it takes to see results from this supplement for cold sores varies, but many users report positive effects fairly quickly. One user noted that they experienced a remarkable reduction in symptoms at the very first sign of a cold, suggesting that results may be felt immediately if taken promptly Read Review. Another user, although only on day one of use, noticed an immediate improvement in their chapped lips, which could indicate that the supplement begins working quickly for certain users as well Read Review.
However, it’s important to note that while some users feel significant improvements almost instantly, others may need to continue taking the supplement for a period of time to fully experience its benefits. In one account, a user mentioned consistently taking the supplement for a one-month course during the cold season, which might suggest that longer-term use can be beneficial Read Review. Overall, user experiences suggest that you may start noticing some effects within a day or so, yet a longer regimen may be needed for optimal results.
The scientific research surrounding zinc supplementation and its effect on cold sores suggests that it may offer some benefit, particularly in terms of recovery time and symptom management. A study indicated that while serum zinc levels did not significantly differentiate between patients experiencing cold sores and healthy individuals, lower zinc levels were correlated with prolonged recovery periods. This implies that maintaining adequate zinc levels might be beneficial for people suffering from herpes labialis [1]. Another study revealed that the topical application of zinc oxide or zinc sulfate can lead to a slight reduction in the duration of symptoms when applied promptly, although these benefits appear small compared to other treatments available [4].
Further research highlighted the effectiveness of zinc in a combined treatment regimen. For instance, zinc sulfate gel significantly reduced symptoms and accelerated healing when used early in an outbreak [8]. More specifically, a study showed that patients treated with a zinc oxide/glycine cream experienced less severe symptoms and shorter-lasting lesions compared to those using a placebo [7]. Overall, while zinc supplementation might not be a standalone solution for cold sores, its inclusion in treatment strategies could prove helpful for managing and reducing the frequency of outbreaks and symptom severity.
Users have reported various levels of improvement in their symptoms after taking the supplement. Many have experienced rapid relief, particularly at the onset of a cold. For instance, one user mentioned they felt all symptoms vanish remarkably right after taking a pill at the first sign of a cold, highlighting the immediacy of the effects when taken promptly Read Review. Another user noted a noticeable improvement in their chapped lips within just one day of use, which suggests that the supplement can provide quick benefits for some individuals Read Review.
Additionally, other users have reported that combining this supplement with vitamin C further enhances its impact on cold symptoms, reinforcing the idea that this product may work well when used as part of a broader regimen Read Review. Overall, while many users have noted significant improvements in their symptoms after a short period of use, it is important to keep in mind that individual results can vary widely, and some may find that a longer course is necessary for optimal effectiveness.
Users have reported positive effects when combining this supplement with other products, particularly vitamin C, to manage cold sores. One reviewer noted that taking it alongside vitamin C has led to a significant impact on their symptoms whenever a cold threatens to emerge Read Review. This suggests that a synergistic effect may enhance the overall efficacy of the supplement when integrated into a broader regiment.
Additionally, other users mention the manageable dosage of the supplement, indicating that it can be easily combined with other remedies without overwhelming their system. One user mentioned that while they typically use one tablet daily, they found that taking two could be beneficial during cold symptoms, implying flexibility in utilization without adverse effects Read Review. Overall, feedback indicates that users have had success combining this supplement with others to bolster their defenses against cold sores, enhancing their effectiveness during the cold season.
When it comes to effectively treating cold sores, zinc has shown potential benefits, particularly when used in products like zinc sulfate or zinc oxide. Research indicates that systemic zinc sulfate at a dose of 22.5 mg taken twice daily may significantly reduce both the occurrence and duration of cold sore outbreaks. In a study involving patients who frequently experienced cold sores, those receiving this dosage reported a decrease in episodes and an average recovery time of around 5.7 days, which is noticeably shorter than usual [5].
In topical applications, zinc formulations such as zinc oxide or zinc sulfate gel have also demonstrated efficacy. For example, patients using zinc sulfate gel experienced quicker healing and less discomfort compared to those who did not use it [8]. Additionally, low concentrations of zinc sulfate (0.025-0.05% for skin applications) have shown promise in both preventing outbreaks and managing symptoms effectively [9]. While zinc alone might not be the ultimate solution for everyone, incorporating it into a comprehensive treatment strategy could provide a beneficial boost for those troubled by recurrent cold sores.
9
Effective remedy
This cool brand offers zinc combined with manganese, and it’s naturally fermented with numerous organic certifications. At the first sign of a cold, I take a pill and feel all symptoms vanish remarkably. During the cold season, I complete a one-month course. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
6
Improved lips
1 people found this helpful
I discovered this supplement on social media and it’s said the fermentation helps reduce issues compared to regular zinc. I bought it for my chapped lips during winter, as no lip cream seems effective. Although it's been just a day, my lips haven't peeled this morning. There's still room for improvement, but I'm encouraged to keep taking it. The dosage is manageable, with one tablet daily being enough, though two can help if you're experiencing cold symptoms. The pill size wasn't large, which is a positive.
7.5
Organic relief
The product has good packaging and the organic label instils confidence. I take it alongside vitamin C whenever I sense a cold coming on, and it has a significant impact. If there's a special offer, I will repurchase it.
7
Zinc and cold sore recovery
Comparative study of serum zinc concentration in recurrent herpes labialis patients and healthy individuals.
We explored the relationship between zinc levels and recurrent herpes labialis (cold sores) through a study involving 43 patients with a history of this condition and 42 healthy individuals. By measuring serum zinc levels using a colorimetric method, we aimed to find out whether these levels differ significantly between both groups and how they relate to the severity and duration of cold sore episodes.
Although we found that serum zinc levels did not significantly differ between the patients and healthy subjects, we observed an interesting correlation regarding recovery times. Specifically, lower serum zinc levels appeared to be linked to longer recovery periods from cold sores. This suggests that zinc might play a role in speeding up recovery, though it was not a significant factor influencing relapse frequency or patient demographics such as age and sex.
Overall, while the study didn’t establish a direct benefit of zinc supplementation, the findings indicate that zinc deficiency might contribute to longer-lasting cold sores. Therefore, we suggest that evaluating zinc levels in patients experiencing recurrent cold sores could be beneficial and that zinc supplementation may be worth considering in treatment protocols.
We explored the effectiveness of zinc treatments for cold sores, often caused by the herpes simplex virus. The research indicates that using zinc oxide or zinc sulfate, along with other interventions such as anesthetic or antiviral creams, can lead to a slight reduction in the duration of symptoms when applied promptly. However, its benefits appear small and may not outweigh other treatments available.
The study also highlighted the potential of oral antiviral medications in managing symptoms and preventing future outbreaks. While zinc treatment may offer some help, it is essential to understand that it is usually most effective when used alongside other therapies. As for using sunscreen to avoid triggers like sunlight, the results were mixed. In controlled settings, some protections were noted, but these weren't consistently replicated in everyday situations.
All in all, prompt treatment with either topical or oral medications is key for alleviating cold sore symptoms. We found that both approaches can help prevent future occurrences of cold sores, but we should be cautious in relying solely on zinc as a treatment option.
9
Zinc gel aids cold sore healing
[Clinical double-blind trial of topical zinc sulfate for herpes labialis recidivans].
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to assess the impact of zinc sulfate gel on cold sores, specifically herpes labialis recidivans. In our study, patients treated with zinc sulfate gel, known as Virudermin Gel, experienced significantly reduced symptoms and faster healing compared to those who received just the gel without zinc.
The results were promising; the patients using the zinc gel reported less discomfort, and their sores healed more quickly. Importantly, this treatment showed no significant side effects, making it a safe option for managing cold sores. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of zinc sulfate helped prevent any superinfections, adding another layer of benefit to its use.
Overall, our exploration into zinc’s effectiveness provided valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers seeking reliable cold sore treatment options. With simple application and proven results, zinc sulfate gel could become a go-to remedy for those frequently struggling with herpes labialis recidivans.
9
Zinc cream alleviates cold sores
A randomized clinical trial on the treatment of oral herpes with topical zinc oxide/glycine.
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to explore the effectiveness of a zinc oxide/glycine cream in treating cold sores caused by facial and circumoral herpes. By dividing 46 participants into two groups, one receiving the zinc treatment and the other a placebo, we aimed to measure how this formulation affected the duration and severity of cold sore symptoms.
Our results were quite promising! Participants who began using the zinc oxide/glycine cream within the first 24 hours of noticing symptoms experienced cold sore lesions that lasted only an average of 5 days, compared to 6.5 days for those on the placebo. Additionally, we noticed a significant reduction in the overall severity of their symptoms, including blistering, soreness, itching, and tingling.
As for side effects, subjects treated with the zinc cream experienced only minor and reversible issues typical of ionic zinc salt solutions. This indicates that the zinc oxide/glycine cream is not only effective but also safe for treating cold sores, presenting a valuable option for many people seeking relief from this common condition.
8
Zinc treatment helps cold sores
Recurrent herpes labialis: a pilot study of the efficacy of zinc therapy.
We aimed to understand how zinc might affect the occurrence and duration of cold sores, also known as herpes labialis. In our study, we treated 20 patients, mostly women with an average age of 26.6, who experienced more than six episodes of cold sores each year. They received zinc sulphate at a dose of 22.5 mg twice daily during specific months over a year while we monitored their symptoms for 12 months.
Our results were promising. Patients reported a decrease in the frequency of cold sore episodes, averaging fewer than four instances per year. Moreover, the duration of these episodes was also shortened to around 5.7 days, significantly less than usual for these conditions.
Thus, we can say that systemic zinc sulphate seemed to effectively reduce both the number of cold sore outbreaks and the recovery time. This suggests that zinc might be a beneficial option for individuals who struggle with recurrent cold sores.
8
Zinc effective for cold sores
Topical treatment of recurrent herpes simplex and post-herpetic erythema multiforme with low concentrations of zinc sulphate solution.
We explored the effectiveness of low concentrations of zinc sulphate solution in managing recurrent cold sores. The study documented that applying zinc sulphate directly to the skin or oral mucous membrane showed promising results in preventing outbreaks of herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores.
Specifically, we noted that a solution concentration of 0.025-0.05% for the skin and 0.01-0.025% for the oral area was used for treatment. Not only did this approach seem beneficial for active infections, but it also aided in stopping the recurrence of post-herpetic erythema multiforme—a condition related to past herpes outbreaks.
Overall, these findings are exciting for anyone struggling with the recurring pain and embarrassment of cold sores, as they suggest a relatively simple topical treatment could help reduce flare-ups. We believe this research paves the way for further discussions about using zinc sulphate as a viable option for managing such conditions effectively.
References
Ranjbar Z, Zahed M, Ranjbar MA, Shirmardan Z. Comparative study of serum zinc concentration in recurrent herpes labialis patients and healthy individuals. BMC Oral Health. 2020;20:296. doi:10.1186/s12903-020-01277-2
Houston DM, Bugert J, Denyer SP, Heard CM. Anti-inflammatory activity of Punica granatum L. (Pomegranate) rind extracts applied topically to ex vivo skin. Eur J Pharm Biopharm. 2017;112:30. doi:10.1016/j.ejpb.2016.11.014
Khozeimeh F, Jafari N, Attar AM, Jafari S, Ataie M. Comparative analysis of salivary zinc level in recurrent herpes labialis. Dent Res J (Isfahan). 2012;9:19. doi:10.4103/1735-3327.92922
Opstelten W, Neven AK, Eekhof J. Treatment and prevention of herpes labialis. Can Fam Physician. 2008;54:1683.
Femiano F, Gombos F, Scully C. Recurrent herpes labialis: a pilot study of the efficacy of zinc therapy. J Oral Pathol Med. 2005;34:423.
Singh BB, Udani J, Vinjamury SP, Der-Martirosian C, Gandhi S, et al. Safety and effectiveness of an L-lysine, zinc, and herbal-based product on the treatment of facial and circumoral herpes. Altern Med Rev. 2005;10:123.
Godfrey HR, Godfrey NJ, Godfrey JC, Riley D. A randomized clinical trial on the treatment of oral herpes with topical zinc oxide/glycine. Altern Ther Health Med. 2001;7:49.
Kneist W, Hempel B, Borelli S. [Clinical double-blind trial of topical zinc sulfate for herpes labialis recidivans]. Arzneimittelforschung. 1995;45:624.
Brody I. Topical treatment of recurrent herpes simplex and post-herpetic erythema multiforme with low concentrations of zinc sulphate solution. Br J Dermatol. 1981;104:191.