Throat lozenges often contain ingredients like menthol, honey, or herbal extracts that can help soothe a sore or irritated throat. They provide a soothing and cooling sensation, which can temporarily relieve discomfort.
Some throat lozenges contain cough suppressants, which can help reduce the urge to cough. This can be especially helpful if you have a persistent cough that is keeping you awake or causing discomfort.
Lozenges can also increase saliva production, which can keep the throat moist and reduce irritation.
While throat lozenges can provide relief from specific cold symptoms, they do not treat the underlying viral infection responsible for the cold.
To treat a cold, it's important to rest, stay hydrated, and try over-the-counter remedies for congestion or fever.
If your cold symptoms persist or worsen, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.
Additionally, if you have a persistent or severe sore throat, it's important to rule out other potential causes and seek medical attention if necessary.
On the other hand, throat lozenges that contain Vitamins, such as Vitamin C are marketed as immune-boosting or cold and flu remedies. These lozenges often claim to provide additional benefits beyond soothing a sore throat or suppressing a cough.
Zincovit-C
Vitamin C
Vitamin C has potential in treating cold and the flu. Some studies have suggested that Vitamin C may reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms.
Linus Pauling conducted research and published books advocating for high-dose Vitamin C supplementation to prevent and treat colds.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published by the Cochrane Collaboration in 2013 analysed the results of multiple studies on Vitamin C and colds. The review found that while Vitamin C supplementation did not seem to reduce the incidence of colds in the general population, it did appear to reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms, particularly in individuals under high physical stress, such as marathon runners and soldiers.
There have been various clinical trials and studies investigating the role of Vitamin C in cold and flu management. Some have shown benefits in prevention and treatment.
It's important to note that the effects of Vitamin C on colds and the flu can vary depending on factors such as the dose, timing, and individual susceptibility. Vitamin C is generally safe in recommended doses, but excessive intake can lead to gastrointestinal upset.
Zinc
Zinc is another dietary supplement that has potential in treating cold and the flu. Zinc plays a role in immune function and may have antiviral properties.
A meta-analysis published in the "Open Respiratory Medicine Journal" in 2011 analysed the results of several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on zinc for the treatment of the common cold. The analysis concluded that zinc lozenges or syrup, when taken within 24 hours of the onset of cold symptoms, could significantly reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms. The study suggested that zinc may be beneficial for treating colds, especially if taken early.
Another meta-analysis, published in the "Canadian Medical Association Journal" in 2015, reviewed 17 RCTs on zinc supplementation for the treatment of colds. The analysis found that zinc reduced the duration of cold symptoms but did not significantly affect the severity of symptoms. However, there were variations in results depending on the zinc formulation (zinc acetate or zinc gluconate) and dosage used.
A Cochrane review published in 2020 assessed the effectiveness of zinc for preventing and treating the common cold. The review included RCTs involving both zinc supplementation and zinc nasal sprays. The findings indicated that zinc may reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms when taken within 24 hours of symptom onset.
The effectiveness of zinc appears to be most beneficial when taken early, during a cold. The optimal dosage and form of zinc (lozenges, syrup, nasal spray, etc.) for cold treatment are still a subject of debate.
Excessive zinc intake can lead to adverse effects and interfere with the absorption of other minerals, so it's essential not to exceed recommended dosages.
Bee Propolis
Bee Propolis is a substance collected by bees from trees, which has been studied for its health benefits, like treating cold and flu.
Research published in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" in 2019 investigated the antiviral activity of Propolis against the influenza A virus. The study found that some Propolis extracts limited the virus in the lab.
A small clinical trial published in the journal "Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine" in 2013 investigated the effectiveness of a throat spray containing bee Propolis in treating acute pharyngitis (sore throat). The study suggested that the Propolis throat spray may help reduce sore throat symptoms and improve overall well-being in participants with acute pharyngitis.
While bee Propolis may contain compounds with potential antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, it is not considered a primary or proven treatment for colds or the flu. If you are considering using vitamins for cold or flu relief, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on its use, potential side effects and any interactions with other medications or health conditions you may have.
Remember that the best way to prevent cold and the flu is through good hygiene practices, like regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. Getting an annual flu vaccine, staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and adequate sleep can also protect against cold and flu.
If you have a cold or flu that's severe or lasts for an extended period, it's advisable to seek medical advice for appropriate treatment.
Related Articles
- Benefits of Vitamin C: The Protective Vitamin! – HealthAid®
- Could It Be Zinc Deficiency? – HealthAid®
- Propolis - A Wonder Bees Product and Its Health Benefits – HealthAid®
Sources
- Vitamin C supplementation and the common cold--was Linus Pauling right or wrong? - PubMed (nih.gov)
- CD000980_abstract.pdf (cochranelibrary.com)
- Microsoft Word - Suppl-2-Hemila_TORMJ (benthamopen.com)
- Zinc for the treatment of the common cold: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials - PubMed (nih.gov)
- Anti-Viral and Immunomodulatory Properties of Propolis: Chemical Diversity, Pharmacological Properties, Preclinical and Clinical Applications, and In Silico Potential against SARS-CoV-2 - PMC (nih.gov)
- Vitamin C - Consumer (nih.gov)
- Zinc - Consumer (nih.gov)
- Bee Pollen: MedlinePlus Supplements
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Any information or product suggested on this website is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Consult your primary healthcare physician before using any supplements or making any changes to your regime.
