Supplement Synopsis

If you sneeze or cough near someone, there is a chance they will tell you what you should take to “get rid of that cold.”  This 2-part blog post covers some of the supplements that are commonly used to treat a cold. 

In part 1 of this blog- Blessings into the New Year– I talked about Vitamin C.  In this blog, I will talk about zinc, echinacea, garlic, and elderberry and what research says about using these supplements with a cold.  (As a side note, while it is technically not a supplement, I did look up Hotty Toddy and colds, but could not find any research to promote its use or research to discredit it).

Zinc

Zinc is known for its role in supporting the immune system.  It regulates the development and function of leukocytes and lymphocytes, is involved in the production of antibodies, and plays a signaling role in the regulation of inflammation.

There are ample articles written regarding the efficacy of zinc and the common cold.  One study found when taken in the form of lozenges within the first 24 hours of symptom onset, zinc showed to decrease the duration and severity of colds, possibly shortening the time of being ill by 33% according to another study.

Echinacea

Echinacea is a popular herb that is thought to support the immune system by increasing production of white blood cells as well as having an anti-inflammatory response.  The immunotherapy effects of this flower have been studied for years, with numerous studies available in relation to upper respiratory tract infections. 

A review of echinacea indicates it could decrease the odds of contracting a cold by about 58%. The same review also found the duration of a cold could be decreased. Another study did not find any evidence of decreasing the duration of being ill, but did come to the conclusion that this herb may have some preventive qualities. This was shown again in a study where travelers who took echinacea experienced fewer respiratory symptoms in comparison to those in the placebo group.

Garlic

Using this most delicious bulb as medication can be traced back to the Ancient Egyptians. Hippocrates himself used garlic medicinally. It has been studied for it’s antimicrobial properties.

While garlic has long been considered a natural remedy for treating colds, research conducted suggests that more studies are needed to determine if there is any benefit to prevent colds or decrease the frequency and duration of a cold.

Elderberry

Elderberries, like garlic, can be traced back to use by the Ancient Egyptians. Elderberry contains anthocyanins, which play a role in inhibiting viral infections. Today we commonly see elderberries and their flowers cooked down into an extract to use as a treatment for colds a flu. (side note- the seeds, leaves, stems, and roots contain toxic chemicals and can cause illness)

Research on this herbal supplement indicates that taking elderberry at the onset of symptoms can reduce the duration of symptoms. As for preventative measures, a systemic review did not show evidence for prevention.

Summary

Zinc, echinacea, and elderberry have been shown in research to have a positive effect on the duration and severity of colds and other upper respiratory conditions, while garlic was shown to need more research conducted.

There is more to come on each of these supplements, so please , subscribe to receive updates on new blog posts.

And as always, this blog does not substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; it is intended for informational purposes only. You should seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider for treatment. Never disregard medical advice or delay treatment because of what you have read on this blog post.