Vitamin C

Traditional Usage

Vitamin C is essential for the formation and maintenance of collagen, the substance that binds body cells together; for the metabolism of the amino acids tyrosine and tryptophan; the absorption and movement of iron; the metabolism of fats and lipids; cholesterol control; sound teeth and bones; strong capillary walls and healthy blood vessels; and the metabolism of folic acid. It is also a powerful antioxidant, neutralising free radicals and helping ward of symptoms associated with oxidation, from wrinkles to illnesses including cancer. Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble Vitamin C ester that exerts antioxidant activity characteristic of vitamin C on lipids throughout the body, and is the most widely used fat-soluble derivative of vitamin C in skin care. It has been found to protect cell membranes of human red blood cells and alpha-tocopherol (Vitamin E, a known antioxidant) from oxidative damage by neutralising free radicals, resulting in reducing the depth of wrinkles. Unlike vitamin C, it can be stored by the body.