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
Effective for recovery
3 people found this helpful
Great! My stomach feels fine, and I take this for my skin and general health. When I catch a cold or have skin irritation, taking one tablet every one to two hours helps me recover in just one day. It's an essential product.
Read More
9
Prevents colds efficiently
3 people found this helpful
Fantastic! I’ve chosen this vitamin C for my family and me, thanks to its GMP certification and Kosher quality. I take one tablet every other day, and if I sense a cold coming, I take two tablets hourly for three to four hours. The cold quickly disappears. Stay healthy!
Read More
9
Relieves symptoms quickly
3 people found this helpful
This is the best vitamin C I’ve tried! It arrived just as I caught a virus, feeling a sore throat and swollen lymph nodes. After taking one, I felt better later. I continued taking them, and the symptoms disappeared quickly.
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
Moderately Good
Based on 28 Reviews
7.7
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Effective for recovery
3 people found this helpful
Great! My stomach feels fine, and I take this for my skin and general health. When I catch a cold or have skin irritation, taking one tablet every one to two hours helps me recover in just one day. It's an essential product.
Read More
9
Prevents colds efficiently
3 people found this helpful
Fantastic! I’ve chosen this vitamin C for my family and me, thanks to its GMP certification and Kosher quality. I take one tablet every other day, and if I sense a cold coming, I take two tablets hourly for three to four hours. The cold quickly disappears. Stay healthy!
Read More
9
Relieves symptoms quickly
3 people found this helpful
This is the best vitamin C I’ve tried! It arrived just as I caught a virus, feeling a sore throat and swollen lymph nodes. After taking one, I felt better later. I continued taking them, and the symptoms disappeared quickly.
Read More
9
Prevented colds
3 people found this helpful
I haven’t caught a cold! If you start taking it daily for flu or colds, there’s no chance of becoming ill. I attribute this to taking it alongside iron.
Read More
7.5
Faster recovery
3 people found this helpful
Cold prevention. I have a chronic illness and take 4 tablets daily for health maintenance. Since I started, it’s been harder to catch a cold and I recover faster. The only downside is the large tablet size; I cut it in half to swallow.
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, the time it takes to see results when taking this vitamin C supplement for cold sores can vary. Many users report experiencing relief relatively quickly. For instance, one user mentioned feeling better within a day after taking the supplement at the onset of symptoms Read Review. Another user echoed this sentiment by stating that their symptoms disappeared quickly after beginning the supplement when they caught a virus Read Review.
However, results can differ. While some individuals experience quick relief, others may not see the same effectiveness. One review indicated that the supplement did not help with cold sores at all for that user, suggesting a mixed response among users Read Review. Therefore, while many users find that taking the supplement during the early stages leads to faster recovery, individual experiences may vary.
Scientific research indicates that vitamin C may offer potential benefits in the treatment of cold sores, particularly those caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). A clinical pilot study showed promising results for a combination treatment of lignin and vitamin C, where participants who started treatment early reported reduced severity and frequency of cold sore episodes. Notably, those who began within 48 hours of symptom onset did not develop typical lesions. However, since vitamin C was part of a larger combination, isolating its specific effects is challenging [1].
Another study explored a topical vitamin C solution, revealing that participants experienced fewer days with scabbing and milder symptoms compared to a placebo group, supporting the efficacy of vitamin C in treating cold sores [2]. Additionally, a trial involving vitamin C and bioflavonoids suggested a reduction in blister formation and symptom relief when treatment commenced at the initial outbreak signs [3]. Although these studies endorse the potential benefits of vitamin C against cold sores, further research is warranted to clarify its standalone effects and optimize treatment protocols.
Users report a variety of positive experiences with this vitamin C supplement, particularly regarding its efficacy in alleviating cold and flu symptoms. Many individuals have mentioned that they notice significant improvement in their health within a day of increasing their vitamin C intake at the onset of illness. For example, one user recounted feeling better just one day after taking the supplement when experiencing cold symptoms Read Review. Other users have shared similar sentiments; one stated they felt a marked reduction in symptoms after taking two tablets hourly when sensing a cold coming on Read Review. Additionally, some reviews highlight the effectiveness of the supplement in preventing colds altogether, with one user claiming they hadn't caught a cold in over 200 days while taking it daily Read Review.
However, it’s worth noting that results can be mixed. While many users rave about the supplement's benefits, there are reports of individual experiences where the vitamin did not provide relief from symptoms. For instance, one user found it ineffective for their cold sores despite a strong belief in its potential Read Review. Another reported no improvement with the supplement for their cold symptoms Read Review. These accounts suggest that, while a significant number of users experience relief and enhanced immunity, individual responses can vary widely.
Users report varied experiences when combining this vitamin C supplement with other dietary elements for handling cold sores. One user noted that taking vitamin C alongside iron significantly boosted their immune defense, effectively preventing colds altogether Read Review. Other users have also mentioned that they use vitamin C in combination with other approaches to combat symptoms, such as increased intake at the early signs of illness or utilizing it as a go-to remedy when cold sores emerge Read Review.
However, there are also accounts of individuals who reported that, despite taking the vitamin C supplement regularly, it did not alleviate their cold sore symptoms. For example, one user concluded that they needed additional support to boost their immune system as the vitamin did not work for their cold sores Read Review. This suggests that while some users find success with a multi-faceted approach to managing cold sores, others may not experience the same level of effectiveness, indicating a personalized response to supplement combinations.
While specific optimal doses of Vitamin C for treating cold sores are not definitively established, research suggests that its efficacy is enhanced when used in combination with other compounds. One study explored the effects of a lignin and Vitamin C treatment, indicating that those who began treatment within the first 48 hours of symptoms experienced fewer incidents of cold sore lesions. Meanwhile, another study found that a strong ascorbic acid solution led to fewer days with symptoms when applied multiple times in the early stages of an outbreak [1][2].
Moreover, a clinical trial involving a water-soluble complex of Vitamin C and bioflavonoids reported significant symptom relief when treatment commenced at the onset of symptoms, with an average improvement in about 4.2 days for lower doses [3]. Although these findings highlight Vitamin C's potential in managing cold sores, further studies focusing solely on Vitamin C's effectiveness will be necessary for more precise dosage recommendations. For those looking to reduce the duration and severity of cold sores, starting treatment early and considering combination therapies may be beneficial.
9
Quick relief
1 people found this helpful
C piece. I take it when I feel a cold coming on, and usually, I feel better within a day. However, the tablet particles are large and not easy to swallow.
9
Relieves symptoms quickly
3 people found this helpful
This is the best vitamin C I’ve tried! It arrived just as I caught a virus, feeling a sore throat and swollen lymph nodes. After taking one, I felt better later. I continued taking them, and the symptoms disappeared quickly.
0
Not effective
This did not work for me! Normally a great brand, but it was useless for my cold sores. It didn't alleviate my symptoms at all.
9
Effective for recovery
3 people found this helpful
Great! My stomach feels fine, and I take this for my skin and general health. When I catch a cold or have skin irritation, taking one tablet every one to two hours helps me recover in just one day. It's an essential product.
9
Prevents colds efficiently
3 people found this helpful
Fantastic! I’ve chosen this vitamin C for my family and me, thanks to its GMP certification and Kosher quality. I take one tablet every other day, and if I sense a cold coming, I take two tablets hourly for three to four hours. The cold quickly disappears. Stay healthy!
10
Strengthens immunity
2 people found this helpful
I had a weakened immune system, getting colds every two months. After starting vitamin C on recommendation, I didn’t catch a cold for 200 days now, taking one tablet daily. It's excellent for boosting immunity.
0
Ineffective remedy
1 people found this helpful
I take it regularly, but it didn’t help with my cold sores. I need something else to boost my immune system.
7.5
A must-have supplement
1 people found this helpful
Recommended! It's essential for the early stages of 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.