Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin C (not specified)
For the health condition: Cold Sores

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Vitamin C has traditionally been used to support immune function and promote wound healing, and thus is sometimes recommended as a complementary approach for cold sores (herpes labialis). The rationale is that vitamin C’s antioxidant properties and its role in immune defense might help the body fight the herpes simplex virus and accelerate healing. However, scientific evidence directly supporting the use of vitamin C—either topically or orally—for the treatment or prevention of cold sores is limited and largely anecdotal. Some small studies and case reports have suggested potential benefits, but these are not robust or consistent enough to draw firm conclusions. Major clinical guidelines and systematic reviews do not recommend vitamin C as a primary or proven intervention for cold sores. Instead, antiviral medications remain the standard of care. In summary, while there is a traditional rationale for using vitamin C for cold sores, scientific support is weak, and the evidence base rates low.

More about Vitamin C (not specified)
More about Cold Sores

Products containing Vitamin C (not specified)

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