Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 9 Researches
8.2
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 22 Reviews
8.6
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Tablet
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Zinc (as zinc picolinate)
22 mg
200%
Top Medical Research Studies
9
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
Strengthens immunity
214 people found this helpful
Helps the immune system and assists in quickly addressing cold sores. The results are excellent, with no side effects.
Read More
9
Preventive effects noted
102 people found this helpful
Zinc picolinate from Solgar has been my go-to for immunity. It’s easy to swallow and has no unpleasant taste. It helped me during a recent illness, and I have not experienced side effects. I recommend 1 tablet daily for prevention and 2 during illness; it’s effective against cold sores.
Read More
9
Miraculous cold prevention
4 people found this helpful
After starting zinc tablets three years ago, I haven't had a single cold, which is remarkable for me. I also believe it aids in healing cuts and substantially protects against cold sores. Given my experience, I strongly recommend it.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 9 Researches
8.2
- All Researches
9
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 22 Reviews
8.6
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Strengthens immunity
214 people found this helpful
Helps the immune system and assists in quickly addressing cold sores. The results are excellent, with no side effects.
Read More
9
Preventive effects noted
102 people found this helpful
Zinc picolinate from Solgar has been my go-to for immunity. It’s easy to swallow and has no unpleasant taste. It helped me during a recent illness, and I have not experienced side effects. I recommend 1 tablet daily for prevention and 2 during illness; it’s effective against cold sores.
Read More
9
Miraculous cold prevention
4 people found this helpful
After starting zinc tablets three years ago, I haven't had a single cold, which is remarkable for me. I also believe it aids in healing cuts and substantially protects against cold sores. Given my experience, I strongly recommend it.
Read More
9
Rapid relief observed
3 people found this helpful
Whenever I start to feel unwell with cold sores, I take two tablets of zinc twice a day, and usually within 1-2 days, the symptoms subside, which is impressive.
Read More
9
Immune boost
1 people found this helpful
It strengthens the immune system effectively. A must-have in our first aid kit for treating cold sores, particularly during colds and flu.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Rapid relief observed
3 people found this helpful
Whenever I start to feel unwell with cold sores, I take two tablets of zinc twice a day, and usually within 1-2 days, the symptoms subside, which is impressive.
9
Quick recovery noted
2 people found this helpful
Whenever I'm feeling ill, cold sores fade quickly within a couple of days after I start taking zinc.
9
Miraculous cold prevention
4 people found this helpful
After starting zinc tablets three years ago, I haven't had a single cold, which is remarkable for me. I also believe it aids in healing cuts and substantially protects against cold sores. Given my experience, I strongly recommend it.
7.5
Quick recovery
At the first signs of a cold, I began taking this product and recovered within two days. However, it shouldn't be taken for longer than a week. On the first day of symptoms, I took two tablets a day and found I could take it alongside calcium and magnesium. It's important to note, though, that it's not a cure for influenza or SARS.
9
Treats illnesses well
1 people found this helpful
This zinc is a top option for digestion, included in the coronavirus treatment protocol. I maintain my health and alleviate cold sores effectively with it alongside vitamins.
8
Cold immunity enhanced
3 people found this helpful
This excellent zinc, in a working dosage, is invaluable for supporting immunity during colder months and the cold sore season.
8
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.
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.
9
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.
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.
9
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.
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.
7
Zinc shows minimal cold sore effect
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.
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.
7
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.
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.
9
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.
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.
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. 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. 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. 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.
