Vitamin C is a virucide (antiviral). It can help to ease herpes-related symptoms naturally because it is a powerful immune booster. It also helps to prevent colds and the flu. Vitamin C helps to regulate histamine in the body. Histamine is released in response to stress, inflammation, and infection, and is known to trigger the herpes virus (and vice versa). As a result, a vitamin C deficiency can lead to more frequent and severe herpes outbreaks, as well as increased susceptibility to colds and the flu. However, avoiding taking typical vitamin C supplements containing ascorbic acid (especially in high doses) is essential when living with the herpes virus.