Evidence supporting the use of: Resveratrol
For the health condition: Cold Sores

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound found in grapes, berries, and peanuts, has been investigated for its antiviral properties, including activity against herpes simplex virus (HSV), the cause of cold sores. Laboratory (in vitro) studies have shown that resveratrol can inhibit the replication of HSV-1, the primary virus responsible for cold sores. For example, research published in the journal Antiviral Research (2005) demonstrated that topical resveratrol reduced HSV-1 replication in cell cultures and in animal models, leading to decreased severity and duration of lesions. The proposed mechanisms include inhibition of viral gene expression and interference with viral DNA synthesis.

However, clinical evidence in humans is limited. Only a small number of animal and pilot human studies exist, and they suggest that topical resveratrol may reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks, but these studies are small and not definitive. No large, randomized, controlled trials have established its efficacy for cold sores in humans. Thus, while there is promising preclinical evidence, and some minor clinical support, the overall quality and quantity of scientific evidence is modest. The use of resveratrol for cold sores is therefore justified primarily by early scientific research rather than tradition, but further high-quality studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety in humans.

More about resveratrol
More about Cold Sores