We explored how zinc lozenges affect the duration of the common cold through a detailed analysis of multiple trials. In particular, we focused on the Mossad (1996) trial involving zinc gluconate lozenges, which revealed an average reduction of cold duration by about 4.0 days. While that sounds promising, our findings through a quantile treatment effect (QTE) analysis tell a more nuanced story.
Interestingly, the QTE analysis showed that for individuals suffering from lengthy colds lasting 15 to 17 days, the zinc lozenges could shorten their illness by as much as 8 days. On the flip side, those with shorter, 2-day colds only experienced a 1-day reduction in sickness. This suggests that while zinc may help, its effectiveness varies significantly depending on the initial duration of the cold, making the overall average effect less informative than we might think.
Our examination extended to three trials that used zinc acetate lozenges, yielding a similar average reduction of around 2.7 days. However, again, those averages concealed varying effects for short and long colds, highlighting the importance of looking beyond simple averages in treatment studies.
Overall, we observed that zinc lozenges can indeed help with cold duration, but the extent of that help is very much dependent on how long a person has been suffering. This approach to understanding treatment effects through QTE analysis could have important implications not just for cold treatment but also for analyzing other health outcomes.
Read More
8
Vitamin C reduces cold severity
Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis.
We explored how vitamin C affects the severity of common colds through a comprehensive review of available studies. By including only randomized, placebo-controlled trials where participants received at least 1 gram of vitamin C daily, we aimed to investigate both the overall duration of colds and the intensity of symptoms experienced.
Our analysis found that vitamin C significantly reduced the severity of cold symptoms by about 15%. Interestingly, it appears that the benefits are more pronounced for those experiencing severe symptoms compared to mild ones. In specific comparisons, vitamin C didn’t substantially affect the duration of mild symptoms but had a notable impact on how long severe symptoms lasted.
This insight is crucial, as the common cold often leads to absenteeism at work and school, with more severe symptoms playing a key role in this setback. By highlighting vitamin C's greater effectiveness against intense cold symptoms, we suggest that future research should continue to look into how this vitamin can be utilized in managing cold severity.
Read More
8
Vitamin C's potential benefits highlighted
Bias against Vitamin C in Mainstream Medicine: Examples from Trials of Vitamin C for Infections.
We assessed the longstanding debate about vitamin C’s effectiveness in treating the common cold. This exploration reveals that evidence has consistently indicated that vitamin C can indeed help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms in certain circumstances.
However, despite this evidence, mainstream medicine has often favored what we call eminence-based medicine, relying on influential figures rather than empirical data. The skepticism surrounding vitamin C largely traces back to three pivotal studies published in 1975, two in JAMA and one in the American Journal of Medicine. These studies have shaped the narrative in textbooks and nutritional guidelines, despite exhibiting notable flaws that we carefully examined.
Furthermore, we highlighted misleading reporting in recent randomized trials and critical editorials published in JAMA regarding vitamin C. While our critique largely focuses on this journal, it reflects a broader trend across medical literature, indicating a possible bias against acknowledging the benefits of vitamin C in fighting colds.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Excellent immune support
8 people found this helpful
This elderberry supplement is great for maintaining immunity! It’s known for its benefits with colds and respiratory issues. The taste is pleasant and not overly sweet, which my daughter and I enjoyed. It was a bargain as a trial product and I hope it helps us avoid getting sick!
Read More
9
Improves immunity quickly
1 people found this helpful
Living with a chronic cold, I sought elderberry for its immunity benefits. Despite struggling with my health, I found this product to be a good option. Its pleasant taste makes it easier to consume.
Read More
9
Critical for sickness
1 people found this helpful
This brand tastes great, unlike some others. I appreciate that it is organic and packed with essential vitamins for supporting the immune system during common colds or flu. The quality ingredients are easy to take and beneficial, making this supplement critical when sickness strikes.
We explored the potential benefits of vitamin C as a supplementary treatment for relieving common cold symptoms. By analyzing data from 10 randomized controlled trials, all focused on patients in China, we sought to understand how combining vitamin C with antiviral therapy might enhance recovery.
Our findings revealed that vitamin C supplementation could significantly improve overall efficacy, with a reported relative risk of 1.27. Moreover, it was shown to shorten the time it takes for symptoms to get better and for patients to heal, compared to antiviral therapy alone.
While vitamin C seems to have a positive impact when paired with antiviral drugs, it’s essential to note that its individual effects might not be fully clear due to the combined treatment approach used in the studies. Nonetheless, vitamin C presents itself as a promising addition to traditional cold treatments, helping patients manage their symptoms more effectively.
Read More
9
Zinc's potential in virus treatment
Inhibition of Respiratory RNA Viruses by a Composition of Ionophoric Polyphenols with Metal Ions.
We explored the effectiveness of zinc in combination with herbal polyphenols against respiratory RNA viruses, including the common cold. In this study, the researchers combined zinc picolinate with various flavonoids to see if it could reduce viral replication and load without harming healthy cells.
The results were quite promising, showing a significant reduction of 50-95% in the genome replication levels of viruses like the human coronavirus OC43, influenza A virus, and human metapneumovirus. This suggests that zinc, when paired with appropriate compounds, may play a beneficial role in treating infections that lead to the common cold.
However, it's important to note that while the study shows a notable decrease in viral activity, it did not specifically isolate the effects of zinc alone. Thus, we cannot definitively state that zinc by itself is effective against the common cold without considering the contributions of the other substances involved.
Overall, this research opens the door for developing a potential treatment that is not toxic and sourced from natural ingredients, which could be effective against various RNA viruses with the hope of remaining effective even amidst mutating strains.
Read More
9
Zinc shortens cold duration variability
Quantile Treatment Effect of Zinc Lozenges on Common Cold Duration: A Novel Approach to Analyze the Effect of Treatment on Illness Duration.
We explored how zinc lozenges affect the duration of the common cold through a detailed analysis of multiple trials. In particular, we focused on the Mossad (1996) trial involving zinc gluconate lozenges, which revealed an average reduction of cold duration by about 4.0 days. While that sounds promising, our findings through a quantile treatment effect (QTE) analysis tell a more nuanced story.
Interestingly, the QTE analysis showed that for individuals suffering from lengthy colds lasting 15 to 17 days, the zinc lozenges could shorten their illness by as much as 8 days. On the flip side, those with shorter, 2-day colds only experienced a 1-day reduction in sickness. This suggests that while zinc may help, its effectiveness varies significantly depending on the initial duration of the cold, making the overall average effect less informative than we might think.
Our examination extended to three trials that used zinc acetate lozenges, yielding a similar average reduction of around 2.7 days. However, again, those averages concealed varying effects for short and long colds, highlighting the importance of looking beyond simple averages in treatment studies.
Overall, we observed that zinc lozenges can indeed help with cold duration, but the extent of that help is very much dependent on how long a person has been suffering. This approach to understanding treatment effects through QTE analysis could have important implications not just for cold treatment but also for analyzing other health outcomes.
Read More
9
Elderberry effectively reduces cold symptoms
Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials.
We explored the effects of black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) on upper respiratory symptoms, particularly in the context of common colds and flu. This analysis included 180 participants and looked at various factors, including vaccination status and the nature of the symptoms experienced.
Our findings indicated that elderberry supplementation was effective in significantly reducing upper respiratory symptoms. The results showed a substantial average effect, suggesting that this natural remedy could provide an alternative to the overuse of antibiotics and prescription medications for viral infections.
With concerns about safety and efficacy of traditional treatments, elderberry presents a promising option for those seeking relief from cold and flu symptoms without relying on conventional drugs.
Read More
9
Elderberry may reduce cold symptoms
Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.
This study implemented a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design to explore whether elderberry supplements could improve respiratory health for air travelers. We observed 312 economy class passengers traveling from Australia to an overseas destination, aiming to see if a standardized elderberry extract could lessen the duration and severity of cold episodes.
Participants recorded their cold symptoms in daily diaries and completed surveys measuring their upper respiratory conditions and overall quality of life at various points before and after travel. While both groups experienced cold episodes, it was notable that those taking the placebo had a longer duration of symptoms and reported feeling worse overall. Specifically, the placebo group faced cold symptoms for an average of 117 days, compared to just 57 days for those receiving elderberry, and their average symptom scores were substantially higher.
Our analysis points to the potential benefits of elderberry in reducing both the duration and severity of cold symptoms for people traveling by air. However, additional research is necessary to confirm these findings and delve deeper into the possible effects of elderberry on both physical and mental health.
This elderberry supplement is great for maintaining immunity! It’s known for its benefits with colds and respiratory issues. The taste is pleasant and not overly sweet, which my daughter and I enjoyed. It was a bargain as a trial product and I hope it helps us avoid getting sick!
Read More
9
Improves immunity quickly
1 people found this helpful
Living with a chronic cold, I sought elderberry for its immunity benefits. Despite struggling with my health, I found this product to be a good option. Its pleasant taste makes it easier to consume.
Read More
9
Critical for sickness
1 people found this helpful
This brand tastes great, unlike some others. I appreciate that it is organic and packed with essential vitamins for supporting the immune system during common colds or flu. The quality ingredients are easy to take and beneficial, making this supplement critical when sickness strikes.
Read More
9
Quick results
I was pleased with the results! I gave it to my children to strengthen their immunity. The effects were quick; we managed the first signs of a common cold very effectively!
Read More
9
Great product
It looks and tastes like blueberries and is easy to consume. However, the aftertaste isn’t great, likely due to the zinc. Despite this, I find it suitable for all ages and helpful at the first signs of a common cold.
The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, primarily affecting the nose and throat. It's caused by a variety of viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most prevalent. Symptoms generally include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, sneezing, mild headache, and sometimes a low-grade fever. While the common cold is often mild and resolves on its own within a week or two, it can still be bothersome and impact daily activities.
Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. Preventative measures include frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Since there is currently no cure for the common cold, treatment focuses on symptom relief through over-the-counter medications, adequate rest, and hydration. While colds may be uncomfortable, they are generally not serious; however, seeking medical attention may be necessary if symptoms worsen or persist for an extended period.
Elderberry (Sambucus) refers to a genus of flowering plants in the family Adoxaceae, comprising several species known for their small berries and traditional medicinal uses. The most commonly recognized species is the European elder, Sambucus nigra, which has been utilized in folk medicine for centuries due to its rich nutrient profile, including antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and dietary fiber. Elderberries are typically fragrant clusters of small, dark purple to black berries that are used in a variety of culinary applications, such as jams, syrups, and wine.
In recent years, elderberry has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, particularly for supporting immune health. Many people consume elderberry supplements or syrups to help alleviate symptoms of colds and flu, with some studies suggesting they may reduce the duration and severity of viral infections. However, it’s important to note that raw elderberries, as well as other parts of the elderberry plant, can be toxic if consumed in large amounts. Therefore, it's recommended to use elderberry products that are properly processed and prepared to ensure safety and efficacy.
While elderberry, particularly from the Sambucus species, has gained popularity as a natural remedy for the common cold, research into its effectiveness is still ongoing. Some studies suggest that elderberry extract may help reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms. The berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which can support the immune system and may aid in fighting off viral infections. Many people take elderberry syrup or capsules at the onset of cold symptoms, and anecdotal evidence supports its use in reducing congestion and providing relief from other cold-related discomforts.
However, it's important to note that while elderberry may provide some benefits, it should not be regarded as a cure for the common cold. The best approach is to use elderberry as a complementary treatment alongside other remedies, such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications, as needed. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those who are pregnant or nursing.
Based on user reviews, it appears that the effectiveness of elderberry supplements for common cold symptoms can vary significantly among individuals. Many users report that they notice results quickly, especially when taken at the first signs of a cold. For instance, one user mentioned that the effects were quick, helping them manage the initial symptoms of a cold very effectively Read Review. Another user highlighted that they always take these supplements at the first hint of illness, suggesting that quick action may enhance effectiveness Read Review.
However, not all experiences have been positive; one user stated that despite taking the supplement during their cold, they did not notice any improvement and still experienced the usual duration of illness Read Review. In summary, while many users feel they benefit quickly from elderberry supplements when taken at the onset of a cold, results can vary, with some not experiencing any noticeable effects.
Vitamin C shows promising support in scientific research for managing common cold symptoms. Various studies indicate that while it might not prevent colds in the general population, regular supplementation at doses over 1 g/day can reduce the severity of symptoms by approximately 15%. These benefits are especially notable in individuals with severe symptoms or those engaging in heavy physical activity, potentially leading to a shorter duration of colds when higher doses (6-8 g/day) are utilized after symptoms begin [1][2]. Additionally, vitamin C supplementation in military settings has demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing the incidence of colds by up to 20% among recruits [7]. Overall, while the evidence points to vitamin C's value in alleviating cold symptoms, it underlines the importance of considering individualized circumstances for optimizing its benefits.
On the other hand, elderberry has also been investigated for its potential to alleviate cold symptoms. Some studies indicate that elderberry can significantly reduce the duration and severity of symptoms, particularly when taken shortly after the onset of illness. For instance, in air travel scenarios, elderberry supplementation led to a notable decrease in the duration of symptoms compared to a placebo [15]. However, the overall research supporting elderberry's effectiveness for the common cold remains mixed and requires further inquiry to establish more concrete evidence regarding its benefits [16]. In summary, both vitamin C and elderberry appear to hold promise in managing common cold symptoms, but more research is needed to solidify their roles.
Users have reported varied experiences when it comes to the effectiveness of elderberry supplements in alleviating cold symptoms and boosting immunity. Many have noted significant improvements, especially when the supplements are taken at the first signs of illness. For example, one user shared that they managed the initial symptoms of a common cold very effectively after using the product Read Review. Others echoed this sentiment, praising the supplement for its pleasant taste and quick action in bolstering immunity Read ReviewRead Review.
However, individual results can differ. Some users did not observe any improvement in their symptoms despite consistent use; one noted that they experienced the typical duration of illness without any noticeable benefit from the supplement Read Review, while another felt that it did not help when they needed it most Read Review. This highlights that while many have found elderberry supplements beneficial in supporting immunity and managing colds, individual responses can vary, and they may not work for everyone.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining elderberry supplements with complementary ingredients, particularly vitamin C and zinc, to enhance their effectiveness against common colds. One user mentioned they always keep elderberry, vitamin C, and zinc handy and use them at the first sign of illness instead of resorting to other medications Read Review. Additionally, another review praised a formulation of elderberry that included vitamin C and zinc, highlighting its strong antioxidant properties and probiotic content, making it an excellent addition to their cold management regime Read Review.
However, not all experiences were positive; some users noted that despite taking these supplements, they did not see significant improvements during their colds. For instance, one reviewer mentioned they experienced no benefits when using the product at the onset of their symptoms, feeling unaffected after a typical duration of illness Read Review. This suggests that while many users find value in combining elderberry with other supplements for cold prevention and relief, effectiveness can still vary greatly, affirming the necessity for individuals to find a personalized approach based on their unique experiences.
When considering Elderberry (Sambucus), the optimal dosing for treating common cold symptoms remains somewhat ambiguous based on current research. However, studies indicate that supplementation appears effective when taken shortly after the onset of symptoms. According to findings from a comprehensive review involving 936 adults, elderberry extracts can lead to a remarkable 50% improvement in symptoms like fever, headache, nasal congestion, and mucus discharge within days of initiation [13]. Additionally, a study with air travelers showed that participants taking elderberry had significantly shorter duration of cold episodes, averaging just 57 days of symptoms compared to 117 days for the placebo group [15].
While these results are promising, it's important to understand that not all evidence is equally robust. The overall research indicates a need for more extensive studies to validate the effectiveness and establish precise dosing guidelines for elderberry when it comes to managing common cold symptoms [16]. If you're considering elderberry as a remedy, starting with standard preparations available on the market while monitoring your symptoms may be a good approach, keeping in mind the varying individual responses.
9
Quick results
I was pleased with the results! I gave it to my children to strengthen their immunity. The effects were quick; we managed the first signs of a common cold very effectively!
9
Always useful
I always keep products with elderberry, vitamin C, and zinc in my medicine cabinet. At the first sign of a common cold, I start taking them instead of other medications.
2
No improvement noted
1 people found this helpful
I enjoyed the taste of these sweet gummies, but they stuck together in the jar. I took them during a common cold but didn't notice any improvement; I was ill for the usual five days.
9
Excellent immune support
8 people found this helpful
This elderberry supplement is great for maintaining immunity! It’s known for its benefits with colds and respiratory issues. The taste is pleasant and not overly sweet, which my daughter and I enjoyed. It was a bargain as a trial product and I hope it helps us avoid getting sick!
9
Critical for sickness
1 people found this helpful
This brand tastes great, unlike some others. I appreciate that it is organic and packed with essential vitamins for supporting the immune system during common colds or flu. The quality ingredients are easy to take and beneficial, making this supplement critical when sickness strikes.
2
Did not help
Delicious marmalades with a pleasant taste. The quality is okay. However, at the first sign of a common cold, it didn’t help at all.
7.5
Powerful cold remedy
1 people found this helpful
This supplement contains black elderberry, vitamin C, and zinc, offering strong antioxidant properties and probiotics. It’s a fantastic addition for tackling the common cold. Tasty and healthy too.
We investigated how vitamin C affects the common cold, focusing on its potential for prevention and treatment. Research indicates that while vitamin C does not prevent colds in the general population when taken at doses over 1 g/day, it has been beneficial for individuals engaging in heavy physical activity, effectively halving their incidence of colds.
Looking into regular supplementation, we found that taking 1 g or more daily can reduce the severity of colds by about 15%. However, when it comes to starting vitamin C after cold symptoms begin, results are less consistent, though higher doses of 6-8 g/day did significantly shorten the duration of colds compared to lower doses.
Interestingly, historical studies showed that vitamin C might prevent pneumonia in specific populations, such as schoolboys or soldiers, but this doesn’t translate to the general public. While some trials indicated potential benefits for pneumonia patients, the evidence is not conclusive.
Overall, we see that given the evidence supporting reduced severity and duration of colds, along with its safety and affordability, it may be worth considering a higher dose of vitamin C for those looking to manage cold symptoms better.
8
Vitamin C reduces cold severity
Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis.
We explored how vitamin C affects the severity of common colds through a comprehensive review of available studies. By including only randomized, placebo-controlled trials where participants received at least 1 gram of vitamin C daily, we aimed to investigate both the overall duration of colds and the intensity of symptoms experienced.
Our analysis found that vitamin C significantly reduced the severity of cold symptoms by about 15%. Interestingly, it appears that the benefits are more pronounced for those experiencing severe symptoms compared to mild ones. In specific comparisons, vitamin C didn’t substantially affect the duration of mild symptoms but had a notable impact on how long severe symptoms lasted.
This insight is crucial, as the common cold often leads to absenteeism at work and school, with more severe symptoms playing a key role in this setback. By highlighting vitamin C's greater effectiveness against intense cold symptoms, we suggest that future research should continue to look into how this vitamin can be utilized in managing cold severity.
8
Vitamin C reduces cold incidence
Vitamin C supplementation reduces the odds of developing a common cold in Republic of Korea Army recruits: randomised controlled trial.
We conducted an insightful study to explore whether vitamin C supplementation can help reduce the incidence of common colds among Republic of Korea Army recruits. Our research involved a rigorous randomised, placebo-controlled trial that included 1,444 soldiers over a 30-day period.
In this study, we divided the participants into two groups: one received a daily dose of 6,000 mg of vitamin C while the other received a placebo with no vitamin C. We investigated the soldiers' medical records to see how many of them contracted a cold during the training period.
Our findings showed encouraging results. The group that took vitamin C had a 20% lower risk of developing a common cold compared to those who took the placebo. Interestingly, this protective effect was especially pronounced among recruits in certain training camps, as well as never smokers and those who were physically ranked at level three.
Overall, we observed that vitamin C supplementation appears to be an effective strategy for reducing the incidence of common colds in military settings, which may lead to considerations for implementing vitamin C provisions during basic training for soldiers.
9
Elderberry may reduce cold symptoms
Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.
This study implemented a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design to explore whether elderberry supplements could improve respiratory health for air travelers. We observed 312 economy class passengers traveling from Australia to an overseas destination, aiming to see if a standardized elderberry extract could lessen the duration and severity of cold episodes.
Participants recorded their cold symptoms in daily diaries and completed surveys measuring their upper respiratory conditions and overall quality of life at various points before and after travel. While both groups experienced cold episodes, it was notable that those taking the placebo had a longer duration of symptoms and reported feeling worse overall. Specifically, the placebo group faced cold symptoms for an average of 117 days, compared to just 57 days for those receiving elderberry, and their average symptom scores were substantially higher.
Our analysis points to the potential benefits of elderberry in reducing both the duration and severity of cold symptoms for people traveling by air. However, additional research is necessary to confirm these findings and delve deeper into the possible effects of elderberry on both physical and mental health.
8
Elderberry shows mixed effectiveness
Respiratory and allergic diseases: from upper respiratory tract infections to asthma.
We explored the potential benefits of elderberry in treating the common cold. Research indicates that elderberry may shorten the duration of symptoms, offering some hope for those suffering from this pesky illness. However, it is important to note that while there was one encouraging study regarding elderberry's use for flu, the overall evidence supporting its effectiveness for the common cold isn't robust and lacks extensive research details.
This leaves us with a mixed outlook on elderberry's capabilities. More thorough and repeat studies are necessary to establish clear benefits to ensure a solid understanding of how well it works for common cold symptoms. It’s clear that elderberry shows promise, but we need more compelling data to feel confident in recommending it as a go-to remedy for colds.
8
Elderberry may ease cold symptoms
The effects of berry on acute respiratory viral infections: A rapid review of clinical studies.
We examined the potential benefits of elderberry in reducing symptoms associated with acute respiratory viral infections, particularly the common cold and influenza. Our review looked at five clinical studies involving 936 adults, focusing on the effects of elderberry when taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.
The findings suggest that elderberry, particularly in mono-herbal preparations such as extracts or lozenges, may help alleviate various symptoms. Participants reported a notable reduction in fever, headache, nasal congestion, and mucus discharge within just a few days of treatment—averaging a remarkable 50% improvement.
However, we found that the evidence regarding elderberry's effectiveness for symptoms like cough and the need for additional medications remains unclear and inconsistent. Overall, while the results are promising, there's no evidence to support elderberry's use for preventing or treating COVID-19 specifically. Adverse effects were generally rare, occurring more commonly with placebo treatments, and there's insufficient information regarding safety during pregnancy or lactation.
References
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for the common cold and pneumonia. Pol Arch Intern Med. 2025;135. doi:10.20452/pamw.16926
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis. BMC Public Health. 2023;23:2468. doi:10.1186/s12889-023-17229-8
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Bias against Vitamin C in Mainstream Medicine: Examples from Trials of Vitamin C for Infections. Life (Basel). 2022;12. doi:10.3390/life12010062
Murni IK, Prawirohartono EP, Triasih R. Potential Role of Vitamins and Zinc on Acute Respiratory Infections Including Covid-19. Glob Pediatr Health. 2021;8:2333794X211021739. doi:10.1177/2333794X211021739
Ran L, Zhao W, Wang H, Zhao Y, Bu H. Vitamin C as a Supplementary Therapy in Relieving Symptoms of the Common Cold: A Meta-Analysis of 10 Randomized Controlled Trials. Biomed Res Int. 2020;2020:8573742. doi:10.1155/2020/8573742
Schloss J, Lauche R, Harnett J, Hannan N, Brown D, et al. Efficacy and safety of vitamin C in the management of acute respiratory infection and disease: A rapid review. Adv Integr Med. 2020;7:187. doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2020.07.008
Kim TK, Lim HR, Byun JS. Vitamin C supplementation reduces the odds of developing a common cold in Republic of Korea Army recruits: randomised controlled trial. BMJ Mil Health. 2022;168:117. doi:10.1136/bmjmilitary-2019-001384
Nault D, Machingo TA, Shipper AG, Antiporta DA, Hamel C, et al. Zinc for prevention and treatment of the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2024;5:CD014914. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD014914.pub2
Kreiser T, Zaguri D, Sachdeva S, Zamostiano R, Mograbi J, et al. Inhibition of Respiratory RNA Viruses by a Composition of Ionophoric Polyphenols with Metal Ions. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15. doi:10.3390/ph15030377
Hemilä H, Chalker E, Tukiainen J. Quantile Treatment Effect of Zinc Lozenges on Common Cold Duration: A Novel Approach to Analyze the Effect of Treatment on Illness Duration. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:817522. doi:10.3389/fphar.2022.817522
Wang MX, Win SS, Pang J. Zinc Supplementation Reduces Common Cold Duration among Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials with Micronutrients Supplementation. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2020;103:86. doi:10.4269/ajtmh.19-0718
DeGeorge KC, Ring DJ, Dalrymple SN. Treatment of the Common Cold. Am Fam Physician. 2019;100:281.
Harnett J, Oakes K, Carè J, Leach M, Brown D, et al. The effects of berry on acute respiratory viral infections: A rapid review of clinical studies. Adv Integr Med. 2020;7:240. doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2020.08.001
Hawkins J, Baker C, Cherry L, Dunne E. Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) supplementation effectively treats upper respiratory symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized, controlled clinical trials. Complement Ther Med. 2019;42:361. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2018.12.004
Tiralongo E, Wee SS, Lea RA. Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Nutrients. 2016;8:182. doi:10.3390/nu8040182
Jaber R. Respiratory and allergic diseases: from upper respiratory tract infections to asthma. Prim Care. 2002;29:231.