Rapidly alleviate a cold: Explore four potential remedies
In the battle against the common cold, several supplements and home remedies have been studied for their potential to reduce the duration of this pesky virus. While no cure exists, these strategies may help alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery.
One such supplement is probiotics. Research suggests that daily probiotic supplementation can help reduce both the severity and duration of cold symptoms, particularly during active supplementation [1].
Vitamin C, a well-known immune system booster, may also offer some relief. While it doesn't prevent colds, some studies indicate it can reduce their duration by about 18% in children when taken in doses of 1-2 grams [2][5]. However, the effectiveness of high doses like 6-8 grams is less clear [5].
Zinc, another contender, has been shown to reduce the duration of colds by up to 3 days and alleviate symptoms like cough and nasal discharge. The most effective doses are typically around 13.3 mg, taken frequently after symptoms begin [3][5].
Elderberry, a popular herbal remedy, is also under investigation. Some studies suggest that elderberry syrup or lozenges may reduce the duration of colds or flu, though more research is needed to confirm these effects [4].
In addition to supplements, there are several home remedies that can provide comfort during a cold. Using a clean air humidifier, saline nasal spray or drops, and inhaling steam can help ease cold symptoms. Resting is also crucial for recovery, as is staying hydrated [6].
Sucking throat lozenges and using honey to relieve a cough are recommended for adults and children over the age of 1 [7]. Honey has been shown to improve cough symptoms and sleep quality in children compared to a placebo [8].
It's important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements and herbal remedies, so claims about products stopping or preventing cold viruses should be approached with caution [9].
Colds are most common in fall and winter but can occur at any time. Adults typically have 2-3 colds per year, while infants and children catch more [10]. Rhinoviruses, the most common cold-causing virus, are highly contagious and spread through human contact or droplets expelled during coughing or sneezing [11].
If symptoms persist or worsen, it's essential to seek medical attention. Parents or caretakers should take a child younger than 3 months old to see a doctor if they have a fever of 100.4F (38C) or above. A person should see a doctor if they experience difficulty breathing, symptoms of dehydration, a fever that lasts longer than 4 days, symptoms that last longer than 10 days with no improvements, symptoms that go away but then come back or worsen, or worsened symptoms of pre-existing chronic health conditions [12].
In conclusion, while these supplements and home remedies may help reduce the duration of a cold, their effectiveness can vary based on dosage and individual response. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707681/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1666867/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1948186/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4144626/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3345221/ [6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2647172/ [7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3718845/ [8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2941669/ [9] https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/herbs-supplements-and-other-complementary-health-products [10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2702261/ [11] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2647172/ [12] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2702261/
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