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
Long-term health aid
Excellent product! I highly recommend it. I take these capsules daily, and during the cold and flu season or at the first signs of a cold or sore throat, I take several additional capsules throughout the day. I haven't experienced a cold or flu in several years.
Read More
9
Boosts immune system
2 people found this helpful
An amazing product at a reasonable price. We've been taking grape seed extract as a supplement for our immune system, and it works exceptionally well. I have avoided illnesses like colds and fevers numerous times by taking about 3 pills before they develop.
Read More
7.5
Quick cold relief
1 people found this helpful
A very fast way to overcome a cold or prevent one from starting.
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
7
Calcium spirulan may help cold sores
Calcium spirulan derived from Spirulina platensis inhibits herpes simplex virus 1 attachment to human keratinocytes and protects against herpes labialis.
We investigated the potential of calcium spirulan, a compound derived from the microalga Spirulina platensis, to help prevent cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). In a thorough study, we assessed the effectiveness of this sulfated polysaccharide both in laboratory tests and through a practical trial involving people with recurring herpes labialis, also known as cold sores.
Our approach included examining how calcium spirulan affected the virus’s ability to attach to human skin cells. Using various experiments such as plaque reduction assays and analyzing viral proteins, we confirmed that calcium spirulan had significant inhibitory effects on HSV-1. In the practical trial, we compared the effects of topical calcium spirulan treatment against other commonly used antiviral medications among 198 participants, all of whom dealt with repeat cold sore outbreaks.
The results suggest that calcium spirulan could be a valuable option for topical treatment, offering new hope for those who suffer from cold sores. Additionally, our findings indicate that calcium spirulan may also show effectiveness against other herpesviruses. This points to the broader clinical implications of using natural compounds like calcium spirulan in managing viral infections.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 6 Reviews
8.5
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Long-term health aid
Excellent product! I highly recommend it. I take these capsules daily, and during the cold and flu season or at the first signs of a cold or sore throat, I take several additional capsules throughout the day. I haven't experienced a cold or flu in several years.
Read More
9
Boosts immune system
2 people found this helpful
An amazing product at a reasonable price. We've been taking grape seed extract as a supplement for our immune system, and it works exceptionally well. I have avoided illnesses like colds and fevers numerous times by taking about 3 pills before they develop.
Read More
7.5
Quick cold relief
1 people found this helpful
A very fast way to overcome a cold or prevent one from starting.
Read More
9
Instant cold remedy
I use it at the first sign of a cold and the issues disappear the next day.
Read More
9
Effective sickness prevention
I love it! I take 2 capsules a day. We've been using grape seed extract as an immune supplement, and it works remarkably well. I’ve avoided illnesses like colds and fever countless times by taking around 3 pills right before they appear. It's a lovely health supplement and is said to help lower blood pressure.
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.
Grape seed extract is a dietary supplement derived from the seeds of grapes, particularly those of the Vitis vinifera species. It is rich in antioxidants, particularly oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs), which are believed to provide various health benefits. These antioxidants help to combat oxidative stress in the body, potentially reducing damage caused by free radicals. Grape seed extract is often marketed for its purported benefits related to cardiovascular health, including improved circulation, lower blood pressure, and decreased cholesterol levels. Additionally, some studies suggest it may have anti-inflammatory effects and support skin health.
The extract can be found in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. When considering grape seed extract as a supplement, it’s important to choose a high-quality product from a reputable manufacturer to ensure potency and purity. While many people may benefit from grape seed extract, it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
Grape Seed Extract is known for its antioxidant properties, primarily due to its high concentration of proanthocyanidins. While there is some anecdotal evidence suggesting that Grape Seed Extract may help enhance the immune system and reduce the severity of certain viral infections, including those caused by the herpes simplex virus (which is responsible for cold sores), scientific studies specifically supporting its direct effectiveness against cold sores are limited.
It's essential to note that while Grape Seed Extract might contribute to overall health, it should not be seen as a primary treatment for cold sores. Many established treatments, such as topical antiviral creams or oral medications like acyclovir, are more reliable options for managing cold sores. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, especially if you're dealing with frequent outbreaks. They can provide guidance on the most effective and evidence-based treatments suited to your needs.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report seeing results relatively quickly when taking this supplement for cold sores. Users like the one labeled with review ID 'dd40c1ff-5193-457b-b5b7-aef62f62ca3e' indicate that they experience improvements the very next day after taking the supplement at the first signs of a cold. Others, such as the user in review ID '92997a4d-36ed-4e01-b979-3facb257e19a', also suggest a speedy response, noting that they increase their intake to help eliminate the development of cold sores and reduce their duration.
In general, there appears to be a consensus among users that immediate action, such as increasing the dosage at the first signs of a cold—you may find benefits within a day or so. However, the speed at which results may be felt can vary depending on individual circumstances and timing of ingestion. Overall, incorporating this supplement early seems to be a common strategy for users aiming to combat cold sores effectively.
The efficacy of various supplements for cold sore treatment is supported by scientific research, particularly concerning vitamin C and its combinations. One study demonstrated that a combination treatment of lignin (from pine cones) and vitamin C reduced the severity and duration of cold sores when administered within the first 48 hours of symptom onset, suggesting possible benefits in managing HSV-1 outbreaks [1]. Another controlled trial specifically tested a vitamin C solution (Ascoxal) and found that it reduced days with scabbing and overall symptom severity compared to placebo, highlighting its potential as an effective topical treatment for cold sores [2].
Further research on a vitamin C and bioflavonoid combination also shows promise, with participants experiencing symptom relief within an average of 4.2 days when treated early [3]. Additionally, calcium spirulan, derived from Spirulina algae, demonstrated significant inhibitory effects on herpes simplex virus type 1 and was found to be effective in practical trials, providing a potential natural alternative for those suffering from cold sores [4]. Overall, while vitamin C and its combinations appear to have supportive evidence for cold sore treatment, more research isolating individual components could further clarify their efficacy.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in their symptoms when using grape seed extract for cold and flu prevention. For instance, one user (review ID '53164599-0ca6-40b3-abe8-0d50203b76fc') claims to have not experienced a cold or flu in several years, attributing this to daily use of the supplement, particularly during cold season or at the onset of symptoms. Additionally, another review (ID 'a4621c46-7a25-43ce-aa71-9d48f41ecb56') highlights it as a fast way to either overcome a cold or prevent one from starting altogether.
Moreover, multiple users recommend increasing the dosage at the first sign of illness for even quicker relief. For instance, review ID '92997a4d-36ed-4e01-b979-3facb257e19a' notes that when feeling run down, increasing intake to 2-3 capsules every hour might help reduce the duration of cold symptoms, while another user (review ID 'dd40c1ff-5193-457b-b5b7-aef62f62ca3e') mentions their issues subsided the day after taking the supplement upon noticing initial symptoms. While these reports are encouraging, it is important to remember that individual results can vary widely based on personal health and timing.
Based on user reviews, there appears to be a strong belief among individuals that combining grape seed extract with other supplements can enhance the effectiveness of treating cold sores and preventing colds. Many users, such as the one identified in review ID '92997a4d-36ed-4e01-b979-3facb257e19a', regularly increase their intake at the first signs of illness. They report that this strategy not only helps to reduce the duration of cold symptoms but may also aid in the overall management of cold sores. Similarly, another user, labeled with review ID 'dd40c1ff-5193-457b-b5b7-aef62f62ca3e', emphasizes taking the supplement promptly when they feel cold symptoms starting, noting significant improvements in just one day.
Additionally, some users have shared their success in using grape seed extract as part of a broader regimen. For instance, one user (review ID '036dccab-c982-47ff-be36-c02b29b9e91f') highlights taking 2-3 capsules as a preventive measure before illness symptoms develop. Overall, the anecdotal evidence suggests that balancing grape seed extract with additional supplements, such as through increased dosing at the onset of symptoms, may lead to better outcomes for managing cold sores and cold symptoms.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report that taking Grape Seed Extract can be beneficial in managing cold sores and cold symptoms when taken at the right dosage. Users generally recommend a daily intake of 2 to 3 capsules under normal circumstances, with an increase during the onset of symptoms. For instance, one user stated, "I take 2 capsules a day...taking around 3 pills right before they appear" to help fight off colds or fevers Read Review. Another user noted that when feeling under the weather, they would "start taking 2-3 capsules every hour" to combat cold symptoms effectively Read Review.
Additionally, responses suggest that the timing of the dosage can play a significant role in effectiveness. For example, "I use it at the first sign of a cold and the issues disappear the next day" exemplifies the importance of initiating treatment early on Read Review. Overall, while the ideal dosage might vary by individual, it appears there is a consensus that increasing the dose to 2-3 capsules at the first signs of illness may help shorten the duration or severity of cold sore outbreaks.
9
Effective sickness prevention
I love it! I take 2 capsules a day. We've been using grape seed extract as an immune supplement, and it works remarkably well. I’ve avoided illnesses like colds and fever countless times by taking around 3 pills right before they appear. It's a lovely health supplement and is said to help lower blood pressure.
7.5
Prevents colds effectively
2 people found this helpful
Great product! I consistently take grape seed extract twice daily. When I'm feeling run down, I increase my intake. I truly believe this helps eliminate cold sores and reduces their duration. If I sense I'm catching a cold or developing a sore throat, I start taking 2-3 capsules every hour.
9
Instant cold remedy
I use it at the first sign of a cold and the issues disappear the next day.
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.
7
Calcium spirulan may help cold sores
Calcium spirulan derived from Spirulina platensis inhibits herpes simplex virus 1 attachment to human keratinocytes and protects against herpes labialis.
We investigated the potential of calcium spirulan, a compound derived from the microalga Spirulina platensis, to help prevent cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). In a thorough study, we assessed the effectiveness of this sulfated polysaccharide both in laboratory tests and through a practical trial involving people with recurring herpes labialis, also known as cold sores.
Our approach included examining how calcium spirulan affected the virus’s ability to attach to human skin cells. Using various experiments such as plaque reduction assays and analyzing viral proteins, we confirmed that calcium spirulan had significant inhibitory effects on HSV-1. In the practical trial, we compared the effects of topical calcium spirulan treatment against other commonly used antiviral medications among 198 participants, all of whom dealt with repeat cold sore outbreaks.
The results suggest that calcium spirulan could be a valuable option for topical treatment, offering new hope for those who suffer from cold sores. Additionally, our findings indicate that calcium spirulan may also show effectiveness against other herpesviruses. This points to the broader clinical implications of using natural compounds like calcium spirulan in managing viral infections.
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.
Mader J, Gallo A, Schommartz T, Handke W, Nagel CH, et al. Calcium spirulan derived from Spirulina platensis inhibits herpes simplex virus 1 attachment to human keratinocytes and protects against herpes labialis. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2016;137:197. 10.1016/j.jaci.2015.07.027