© CNET Courtesy of Nemer-T/Getty ImagesThe cold is one of the downsides of this time of year. While everyone is trying to stay in fun mode to celebrate the holidays, some of us inevitably get colds. Winter is the best time for illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control, millions of people get colds every year. In fact, the average adult has two to three of them a year, which means you're more likely to get them during the winter months.
Because over-the-counter cold medicines are often ineffective, supplements can help. Daily intake of vitamins and herbal remedies has been proven to reduce the severity of colds, shorten their duration, and even prevent them from occurring. Use the solution to soothe your sore throat, and read on to find out the best supplements you should have on hand to ease your cold this season.
7 over-the-counter vitamin supplements to fight the common cold
Your local pharmacy sells a variety of supplements that can help with a cold. Many of them are also great for overall health throughout the year. These are the best cold vitamins and the best cold supplements.
Old man
People usually turn to birch supplements when it's cold and flu season. Studies show that taking birch supplements is associated with a shorter flu duration. However, it should be noted that it cannot prevent or reduce symptoms. The supplement may work in the same way at the start of a cold. Due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties, it can help you get back on your feet faster when you get knocked down by a cold or the flu.
zinc
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, zinc supplements should be used with caution. Zinc must be taken by mouth and has been linked to a reduction in colds, especially when taken shortly after the onset of cold symptoms. However, many people take zinc intranasally, but this is not recommended. The NCCIH states that this method of administering zinc is unsafe and can lead to loss of smell. Zinc can also interact with antibiotics and penicillamine and is therefore not recommended if you are taking any of these medications. Some people have also had nausea when taking zinc.
echinacea
There is very little research on the use of echinacea for colds. However, some studies show that taking echinacea not only reduces the risk of a cold, but also shortens its duration. Other studies have shown similar results: don't take echinacea for a cold, it can help you get rid of a cold faster than if you didn't take anything. Although there is a possibility of an allergic reaction, this supplement is generally safe.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, although minimal, is known to have a positive effect on shortening the duration of a cold, according to the NCCIH. In a study published by the organization, people who took vitamin C regularly were less likely to catch a cold than those who didn't, but had less severe symptoms. The reason is that regular intake of vitamin C can only have a positive effect on colds. Taking too much vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal problems.
© CNET Contributed by Tanya Ivanova/Getty ImagesPelargonium
Pelargonium, a traditional African medicine, has a rich history of use in the fight against disease. Studies show that taking pelargonium and its derivatives can reduce cold symptoms. Studies have shown that the sooner you take pelargonium after the onset of cold symptoms, the better chance you have of managing those symptoms. Some over-the-counter cold remedies contain pelargonium, including Umcka Cold and Flu. Possible side effects include rash and itching (itchy skin).
Andrography
Andrographis is a supplement you've probably never heard of before, but you can buy it from your drugstore's supplement section. Some research on andrographis, a plant from South Asia, suggests that taking it with ginseng can reduce the severity of a cold. On its own or as part of a regular treatment, andrographis can reduce the duration of coughs and sore throats. Possible side effects are also associated with the gastrointestinal tract, such as diarrhea and vomiting. It is recommended that Andrographis be taken within 72 hours of the onset of cold symptoms, and you may start to see improvement in symptoms as early as two days. However, studies show that it takes four to five days for the condition to improve.
Vitamin D
You may be familiar with vitamin D's ability to support bone health, but that's not all it can do. Other important benefits of vitamin D are its ability to fight infections and boost the immune system. Research shows that taking vitamin D supplements can help fight a cold and speed up its recovery. These supplements can also fight respiratory infections, another illness people face during cold and flu season.
Risks of over-the-counter cold supplements
People overlook or ignore homeopathic remedies, but when it comes to the common cold, there aren't many proven remedies to turn to. Natural remedies, such as over-the-counter vitamin and mineral supplements, are generally safe for colds. However, some, such as zinc, can cause problems if not taken with care.
The most important thing to remember when taking over-the-counter supplements is to check with your doctor, especially if you have an underlying medical condition. Your doctor can help you choose a natural cold remedy that is safe for you. They can help you understand the risks that may be associated with each supplement and learn how they may interact with any other supplements or medications you may be taking. This is especially important if you are pregnant, as your doctor will want to monitor any supplements you take.