Zinc Citrate
Zinc Citrate is a nutritional supplement containing the zinc salt form of citric acid for the purpose of providing zinc. As an essential trace element, zinc is of key importance in many biological processes, acts as an antioxidant and strengthens the immune system. Although the mechanism of action is not completely known, zinc supplementation may be used to increase immunity against viruses or may interfere with the replication of certain viruses, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Zinc citrate is a zinc salt of citric acid. It is available as dietary supplements as a treatment of zinc deficiency and source of zinc, which is an essential trace element. Zinc citrate demonstrates effective absorption following oral administration.
Zinc citrate is mainly used in dental care products such as toothpastes, mouthwashes and chewing gums due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects and its ability to reduce or inhibit the formation of dental plaque and tartar. In pharmaceuticals, zinc citrate fights common colds. Zinc is increasingly used in food supplements, functional foods and beverages. As an organic mineral source it is preferred in many applications over inorganic sources because of its superior bioavailability, physiological compatibility and nearly neutral taste compared to other zinc salts.