The acidity of ascorbic acid: an underestimated property against Covid-19 and respiratory viruses.

Background: The intake of vitamin C in flu syndromes and colds, especially citrus juices, is recommended, due to its antioxidant and immunostimulant properties. Aim: The acid pH of these juices, as well as their ascorbic acid content, could contribute to the deactivation of viruses responsible for the disease. Materials: Commercial tablets containing ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate. Methods: This study monitored the pH in samples of the saliva produced by human adult volunteers after the introduction into their mouth of a tablet of a commercial supplement of ascorbic acid (AA). Results: The initial saliva pH of volunteers was 6.6 ± 0.4 and a tablet dissolved in 50 mL of distilled water yields a pH of 4.2 ± 0.1. Conclusion: This work aims to highlight the possible role of vitamin C acidity in common viral illness.