Vitamin C (unspecified)
Other names for Vitamin C (unspecified)
670 mg vitamin c
c
esterified c
fat soluble vitamin c
food nutrient vit c
foodstate orange vitamin c
foodstate(r) orange vitamin c
foodstate vitamin c
natural vitamin c
organic vitamin c
orgen c amla ext.
orgen c(r)
raw whole food vitamin c
ultra potent-c(r)
vitamin c
vitamin c ester
vitamin c liposomal complex
vitamin c palmitate
vitamin c(r)
vit. c
whole-food vitamin c
Synopsis of Vitamin C (unspecified)
History
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has a rich history of medicinal use that dates back centuries. Though its chemical structure was only identified in the 20th century, its health benefits were recognized long before. Historically, Vitamin C’s most famous role was in the prevention and treatment of scurvy—a debilitating disease that plagued sailors and explorers who lacked access to fresh fruits and vegetables during long voyages. Remedies such as lemon and lime juice, rich in Vitamin C, were prescribed by pioneering naval physicians like James Lind in the 18th century, effectively eradicating scurvy from seafaring communities and highlighting the vitamin’s life-saving potential.
Beyond scurvy, Vitamin C has been valued in traditional medicine for its ability to support immunity, speed wound healing, and reduce the severity of colds. In various cultures, herbalists combined Vitamin C-rich plants such as rose hips, acerola cherry, and camu camu with other botanicals to enhance overall health and resilience. These herbal combinations were used as tonics to boost energy, fight infections, and promote recovery from illness. Modern herbal formulations continue this tradition, blending Vitamin C with herbs like echinacea, elderberry, and astragalus to naturally reinforce the body’s defenses.
Vitamin C’s remarkable antioxidant properties protect cells from damage and support collagen formation, making it a cornerstone of both traditional and contemporary wellness practices. Its enduring reputation as a healer and protector underscores its invaluable contribution to human health throughout history.
Traditional and scientific validation
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has a long-standing history as an essential nutrient in human health. Its significance was first recognized in the 18th century, when British naval surgeon James Lind discovered that citrus fruits could prevent and treat scurvy, a life-threatening disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. Since then, vitamin C has been established as an important water-soluble vitamin crucial for collagen synthesis, antioxidant protection, and immune function.
Scientific validation for vitamin C's role in health has been extensive. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in preventing and treating scurvy. Beyond deficiency states, research has explored vitamin C’s potential in supporting the immune system, reducing the duration and severity of the common cold, and promoting wound healing. Some studies suggest that vitamin C supplementation may modestly reduce the risk or duration of colds, especially in individuals under physical stress or with low dietary intake.
Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties have also been studied in the context of cardiovascular health and cancer prevention. While epidemiological studies often show an association between higher vitamin C intake and reduced risk of chronic diseases, randomized controlled trials have produced mixed results. Thus, while vitamin C is undeniably vital for basic health and deficiency prevention, its broader effects on chronic disease prevention require further research.
Overall, vitamin C remains a foundational ingredient in nutritional products due to its well-established essentiality and safety profile. Although more research is needed to clarify some of its broader health effects, its contributions to human nutrition and wellness are widely recognized and supported by historical and scientific evidence.
Vitamin C (unspecified) is used for these health conditions
Acne (Scientific)
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (Scientific)
Allergies (food) (Scientific)
Allergies (respiratory) (Scientific)
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Anemia (Scientific)
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Asthma (Traditional)
Athletic and Exercise Aids (Scientific)
Autoimmune Disorders (Scientific)
Bleeding (external) (Scientific)
Body Building (Scientific)
Bruises (healing) (Scientific)
Burns and Scalds (Scientific)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Canker Sores (Scientific)
Capillary Weakness (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cold Sores (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Scientific)
Colds (general) (Scientific)
Colds (prevention) (Scientific)
Contagious Diseases (Scientific)
Convalescence (Scientific)
Cuts (Scientific)
Vitamin C (unspecified) is used to support these body systems
Adrenal Glands (Scientific)
Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Capillaries (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Eyes (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Glandular System (Scientific)
Gums (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Joints (Scientific)
Lungs (Scientific)
Lymphatics (Scientific)
Mucus Membranes (Scientific)
Muscles (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
Teeth (Scientific)
Thymus (Scientific)
Veins (Scientific)