Cold Supplements: When The Flu Strikes

You could catch a cold almost anytime and anywhere. Do you know that any one of 200 types of viruses could be responsible for it? Symptoms include sneezing and runny nose, sore throat, cough, hoarseness, fever (102 degrees F or lower), and headache. It will generally go away on its own after about 7 to 10 days.

There are some preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of contracting a rhinovirus. These include exercising regularly, eating a proper diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fat, getting sufficient rest at all times, minimizing stress and reaction to stress, and washing hands frequently.

Antibiotics, which are used to treat bacterial infections, and antihistamines, which are used for allergies, cannot help cure a cold, but there are other ways to help treat and prevent them.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a probiotic (an organism that helps fight infection) that is found in certain milk and yogurt products can help reduce the likelihood of getting respiratory infections.

Vitamin C cannot cure the common cold, but if taken in large doses at the onset of symptoms or after the exposure to someone with cold ailments, can shorten the duration of the illness or ward it off altogether. It does not however prevent or treat colds.

Zinc plays an important role to the immune system. Taking supplements of zinc can enhance immune system activity and protect against a range of infections including rhinoviruses and upper respiratory infections, such as bronchitis. Studies have shown that zinc lozenges have reduced the intensity of cold symptoms, especially in coughs and duration. Nasal zinc gels are also found to shorten the lengths of cold.

There are also many herbs that can be used, but caution should be taken because herbs may contain active substances that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, and medications. Astragalus is used to enhance the immune system. Although there have not been many studies preformed, it is thought that it may shorten the duration of colds.

Echinacea is primarily used to shorten the duration of colds and to alleviate the symptoms associated with them, such as sore throat, cough, and fever. Studies have shown that Echinacea will have this effect if it is started at the onset of symptoms. It can't be used as a preventative measure, but it can be used for treatment. Golden seal used in combination with Echinacea help to strengthen the immune system.

Eucalyptus is used particularly to help with coughs. Fresh leaves in teas and gargles soothe sore throats. Ointments made with the leaves relieve congestion when applied to the nose and chest. Oils used in inhaling vapors also help to treat coughs and loosen phlegm.

Chamomile can help treat symptoms related to rhinoviruses such as chest and nasal congestion and sore throats. Ginseng may help the body deal with physically and mentally stressful exposures such as viruses. Studies conducted on people who take ginseng extract showed improvements in a number of measures the reflected the function of the immune system. It is possible that taking ginseng may reduce the likelihood of contracting a virus.