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
Prevented infections
88 people found this helpful
I often fall ill, but since taking Zinc, I have noticed a significant improvement. A recent visit from my mother-in-law brought the flu, yet I remained unaffected! My son also followed my advice and took Zinc along with Kagocel, recovering quickly. I am truly amazed by the effectiveness of Zinc.
Read More
9
Restored taste senses
6 people found this helpful
Zinc in picolinate form helped me recover my sense of taste and smell after suffering from coronavirus. While friends struggled for weeks, I noticed improvements after just a few days. Zinc is fundamental for immunity, and I recommend it for maintaining health and preventing colds.
Read More
9
No illness reported
5 people found this helpful
Since starting this Zinc supplement daily, I haven’t caught a single cold, despite being prone to frequent infections. Recently, a bad flu circulated, and everyone else succumbed, but I remained healthy. I am very pleased with the results!
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.
I often fall ill, but since taking Zinc, I have noticed a significant improvement. A recent visit from my mother-in-law brought the flu, yet I remained unaffected! My son also followed my advice and took Zinc along with Kagocel, recovering quickly. I am truly amazed by the effectiveness of Zinc.
Read More
9
Restored taste senses
6 people found this helpful
Zinc in picolinate form helped me recover my sense of taste and smell after suffering from coronavirus. While friends struggled for weeks, I noticed improvements after just a few days. Zinc is fundamental for immunity, and I recommend it for maintaining health and preventing colds.
Read More
9
No illness reported
5 people found this helpful
Since starting this Zinc supplement daily, I haven’t caught a single cold, despite being prone to frequent infections. Recently, a bad flu circulated, and everyone else succumbed, but I remained healthy. I am very pleased with the results!
Read More
7.5
Supports skin health
5 people found this helpful
Zinc is crucial for skin, hair, nails, and vision. It enhances immunity, producing antibodies and blood leukocytes, and is beneficial for cold sores and acne. I take Zinc with vitamin C; this routine helped my children not miss school due to colds, which has been remarkable.
Read More
9
Immunity booster
4 people found this helpful
My mother often faces colds during winter. Since she started taking one Zinc capsule daily, her runny nose has disappeared and her recovery after illness is much quicker. I recommend Zinc as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent to anyone.
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, it appears that individuals experience varying timelines for seeing results from zinc supplementation for cold sores. Many users noted improvements in their immunity and a reduction in cold sore outbreaks shortly after starting the supplement. For instance, one user remarked that they had not caught a single cold since beginning their zinc intake, crediting it with preventing cold sores as well (Read Review). Other respondents also indicated quick relief, stating that they noticed positive effects within just a few days of taking the supplement, particularly when they increased their dosage at the onset of symptoms (Read Review).
However, results can vary, with some users suggesting that consistent use over time leads to a noticeable decrease in the frequency of outbreaks (Read Review). Specifically, a few users mentioned that while they did not experience immediate results for every cold sore episode, consistent daily intake contributed to a longer-term improvement in cold sore management. Ultimately, individual experiences may differ based on specific health conditions and the timing of zinc consumption in relation to the onset of symptoms.
Scientific research offers mixed but generally supportive evidence regarding the use of zinc in treating cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus. Multiple studies highlight the potential benefits of zinc in reducing the frequency and duration of cold sore outbreaks. For instance, one study indicated that patients taking zinc sulfate showed a marked decrease in the number of cold sore episodes, averaging fewer than four occurrences per year, as well as a shortened duration of symptoms [5]. Additionally, research involving zinc oxide and glycine cream demonstrated a significant reduction in both the duration and severity of cold sore symptoms when used promptly after the onset of symptoms [7].
However, it's important to note that while many studies suggest zinc may assist in management and recovery, its efficacy may be enhanced when used alongside other treatments, such as antivirals or plant extracts like pomegranate [2]. Moreover, not all studies found zinc to be a strong standalone agent for inflammation control related to cold sores [2]. Overall, while zinc could play a role in supporting cold sore management strategies, it is best considered as part of a broader treatment plan.
Users have reported a variety of improvements in their health since incorporating zinc supplements into their routines. Many reviewers highlighted a significant boost in their immune system, with several noting they were able to avoid common ailments like colds and the flu. One user shared that after starting zinc, they didn’t catch a single cold during a flu outbreak, which they attributed to the supplement (Read Review). Others cited similar experiences, suggesting that zinc may provide a protective effect against infections, with a few even mentioning benefits like quicker recovery times when illness did strike (Read Review).
Additionally, users with specific issues such as loss of taste and smell after battling coronavirus reported noticeable improvements within a few days of zinc intake (Read Review). The supplement has also shown efficacy in managing cold sores, with several users noticing fewer outbreaks or quicker resolution of symptoms when zinc was taken at the first sign of an episode (Read Review). While these anecdotal experiences highlight zinc's potential benefits, it's essential to acknowledge that individual results can vary based on personal health conditions and usage.
Users have shared positive experiences regarding the combination of zinc supplements with other nutritional aids to manage cold sores effectively. A common pairing reported is zinc with vitamin C, with one user noting that taking zinc alongside vitamin C as soon as cold symptoms start helped address both colds and cold sores swiftly (Read Review). Another reviewer mentioned that this effective form of zinc combats the first symptoms of a cold and aids in managing their cold sores when combined with vitamins C and D (Read Review). Additionally, one user stated that they took zinc with iodine and selenium, leading to a significant decrease in cold sore occurrences when combined with consistent zinc intake (Read Review).
Moreover, some users have incorporated zinc into a broader supplement routine that includes magnesium and other vitamins, reporting enhanced effects on health and a reduction in cold sore frequency. For instance, a user noted that taking zinc alongside magnesium led to better overall effects, helping them remain cold-free during the winter (Read Review). The anecdotal evidence suggests that combining zinc with other supplements can boost immunity and effectively manage cold sores, though users are encouraged to consider individual health needs and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.
Based on recent research findings, there isn't a universally agreed-upon optimal dose of zinc specifically for treating cold sores, but there are some promising insights to consider. One study indicated that administering zinc sulfate at a dosage of 22.5 mg twice a day showed a reduction in the frequency and duration of cold sore outbreaks. Patients in this study reported fewer than four cold sore episodes per year compared to previous rates, with average healing times dropping to about 5.7 days per episode [5].
Moreover, other studies suggest that topical applications of zinc, such as in zinc oxide or zinc sulfate gels, may be beneficial when used promptly. A zinc oxide/glycine cream, for instance, demonstrated effectiveness when used within the first 24 hours of symptom onset, leading to reduced lesion duration from 6.5 days to an average of 5 days [7]. While these findings show potential, it’s important to combine zinc with other treatment options for a more holistic approach, as the overall effectiveness can be influenced by various factors including other active ingredients and individual patient responses.
10
No colds experienced
1 people found this helpful
Zinc picolinate is fantastic! I’ve been using it since 2005 and haven’t caught a single cold since starting. The effect on my immune system is remarkable, particularly for preventing cold sores.
7.5
Cold treatment assistant
6 people found this helpful
I take Zinc as soon as cold symptoms appear, always alongside vitamin C. This combination swiftly addresses colds and hypothermia. For three days, I take a high daily dose, then taper off. I recommend this approach to anyone looking to avoid getting sick!
7.5
Fewer cold sores
1 people found this helpful
I have been using this zinc for several years now, and I’ve noticed that my frequent colds have stopped, and there are fewer occurrences of cold sores. I highly recommend it!
9
Prevented infections
88 people found this helpful
I often fall ill, but since taking Zinc, I have noticed a significant improvement. A recent visit from my mother-in-law brought the flu, yet I remained unaffected! My son also followed my advice and took Zinc along with Kagocel, recovering quickly. I am truly amazed by the effectiveness of Zinc.
9
No illness reported
5 people found this helpful
Since starting this Zinc supplement daily, I haven’t caught a single cold, despite being prone to frequent infections. Recently, a bad flu circulated, and everyone else succumbed, but I remained healthy. I am very pleased with the results!
9
Restored taste senses
6 people found this helpful
Zinc in picolinate form helped me recover my sense of taste and smell after suffering from coronavirus. While friends struggled for weeks, I noticed improvements after just a few days. Zinc is fundamental for immunity, and I recommend it for maintaining health and preventing colds.
9
Reduced cold sores
I take zinc on my endocrinologist's advice to support my thyroid, along with iodine and selenium. I've been using it consistently for three years, and since starting this regimen, cold sores have significantly decreased. If I sense a cold coming, I double the dose for a few days, which helps me avoid getting ill. I highly recommend this product but advise consulting a doctor regarding zinc intake.
9
Effective supplement
This effective form of zinc combats the first symptoms of a cold when taken with vitamins C and D, helping manage my cold sores.
9
Reduced colds frequency
7 people found this helpful
Having suffered from frequent colds, I decided to try Zinc. After taking it over summer, I didn’t get ill. When I ran out, I caught a cold, but after ordering Zinc again, I remained virus-free throughout winter. I now take it alongside magnesium for better effects. Highly recommend giving it a try!
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.
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
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.
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.