Vitamin C is a supplement and is used as an addition to healthy nutrition, not as a replacement. Vitamin C is needed for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body. It is used to: - Form an important protein used to make skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels - Heal wounds and form scar tissue - Repair and maintain cartilage, bones, and teeth Vitamin C is one of many antioxidants. Antioxidants are nutrients that block some of the damage caused by free radicals. - Free radicals are made when your body breaks down food or when you are exposed to tobacco smoke or radiation. - The buildup of free radicals over time is largely responsible for the aging process. - Free radicals may play a role in cancer, heart disease, and conditions like arthritis. The body is not able to make vitamin C on its own, and it does not store vitamin C. It is therefore important to include plenty of vitamin C-containing foods in your daily diet.