Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin C (Ascorbate)
For the health condition: Colds (decongestant)

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin C (ascorbate) has a long history of traditional use in supporting the immune system and treating the common cold, dating back to the 1970s when Nobel laureate Linus Pauling popularized its use. The rationale was based on early studies suggesting that high doses of vitamin C might reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms, potentially acting as a mild decongestant and immune booster. However, subsequent scientific research has produced mixed results. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses, including those by the Cochrane Collaboration, generally conclude that routine vitamin C supplementation does not significantly reduce the incidence of colds in the general population. Some evidence suggests a modest reduction in cold duration and severity in certain populations, such as those under physical stress (e.g., marathon runners, soldiers in subarctic conditions).

The mechanism by which vitamin C could act as a decongestant is unclear—while it plays a role in immune function and may support the epithelial barrier against pathogens, there is little direct evidence that it reduces nasal congestion specifically. Overall, the use of vitamin C for treating or preventing colds is primarily rooted in tradition, with limited and inconsistent scientific support. It is not considered a decongestant by medical standards, and the strength of evidence for its efficacy in treating cold symptoms is low.

More about Vitamin C (Ascorbate)
More about Colds (decongestant)

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