How effective are natural cold remedies like zinc, echinacea, and vitamin C?
Some studies show that cold treatments such as zinc nasal sprays help cut a cold’s severity and duration. But other studies show that zinc is no more effective than placebo. For in-depth information see, WebMD’s article on Zinc for Colds: Lozenges & Nasal Sprays. Recent, well-done studies on echinacea show that it is not effective in preventing colds. For in-depth information, see WebMD’s article on Echinacea for the Common Cold. As for vitamin C’s effects, a recent survey of 65 years’ worth of studies found limited benefit. The researchers found no evidence that vitamin C prevents colds. However, they did find evidence that vitamin C may shorten how long you suffer from a cold. One large study found that people who took a vitamin C megadose — 8 grams on the first day of a cold — shortened the duration of their colds. For in-depth information, see WebMD’s article on Vitamin C for the Common Cold. To prevent colds the natural way, it’s best to make sure you’ve got a well-nourished imm
