We explored how zinc might help in treating and preventing the common cold. The study focused on zinc's effects, isolating it from other treatments to understand its true impact on cold symptoms. By doing this, the researchers aimed to clarify whether zinc could genuinely shorten the duration of a cold or alleviate its symptoms.
The findings were intriguing but showed that zinc might not yield significant benefits for everyone. While some individuals reported a slight reduction in cold symptoms, the evidence did not strongly support zinc as an effective treatment overall.
This means that, for those seeking relief from a nasty cold, zinc alone might not be the go-to solution we hoped it would be. It’s essential to consider this information when deciding on a cold treatment plan and to approach zinc with realistic expectations.
Read More
9
Zinc enhances rice cold resistance
Effects of different cold-resistant agents and application methods on yield and cold-resistance of machine-transplanted early rice.
We explored the impact of zinc-amino acids chelate on cold stress resistance in machine-transplanted early rice. Our investigation included other cold-resistant agents like uniconazole and abscisic acid, but we found zinc to be particularly effective. When applied during the regreening stage, zinc notably enhanced rice growth by promoting tillering and increasing the leaf area, which led to better yields.
We noted that zinc-amino acids chelate improved antioxidant enzyme activities, which are crucial for helping rice withstand cold temperatures. The yield of rice treated with zinc was approximately 9.22% higher than with uniconazole and 7.14% higher than with abscisic acid.
Additionally, we observed that using 750 g/ha of zinc-amino acids chelate during the transplanting and regreening stages yielded the best results. The timing of the application played a critical role, as spraying during these specific phases maximized both yield and cold resistance.
Overall, zinc treatments stand out as a promising option for improving cold stress resilience in early rice, making it a key consideration for farmers dealing with cold climate conditions.
Read More
8
Zinc mouthwash reduces cold symptoms
Efficacy of regular gargling with a cetylpyridinium chloride plus zinc containing mouthwash can reduce upper respiratory symptoms.
We explored the impact of regular gargling with an antimicrobial mouthwash that contains both cetylpyridinium chloride and zinc on upper respiratory symptoms. A total of 150 participants were split into two groups; one group just brushed their teeth, while the other group brushed and gargled with the mouthwash twice a day over three months.
Our findings revealed that those using the mouthwash experienced a 21.5% reduction in the frequency and an 11% decrease in the severity of respiratory symptoms. This strongly suggests that incorporating zinc, alongside cetylpyridinium chloride, can provide benefits for those suffering from cold-related symptoms.
However, it’s important to note that this study’s design involved multiple components, and we can’t isolate zinc’s effectiveness from the impact of the other ingredients. Still, the results encourage us to view mouthwash with these ingredients as a helpful addition to our daily hygiene routines, especially during cold and flu season.
Ultimately, this research indicates that gargling with a mouthwash containing zinc and cetylpyridinium chloride can indeed help alleviate some unpleasant cold symptoms, but we should be mindful of the combination's effects when interpreting these outcomes.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
10
Restores sense of smell
60 people found this helpful
Zinc helped restore my sense of smell and assists with colds. I take it post meals and experienced no side effects. I use it at the onset of cold symptoms. After three days, my sense of smell returned entirely, attributed to zinc.
Read More
9
No colds!
21 people found this helpful
No illnesses in 6 months! Since starting these after my re-activation of Epstein Barr Virus in December, not only has it helped suppress the mono, but I've not been ill with any other sicknesses, including colds and flus! I take half the recommended dose each day and have not fallen sick at all in 6 months! This is significant for me, as I used to get sick often!
Read More
9
Skin improves significantly
13 people found this helpful
I have been taking zinc for over a year, and the effects are simply remarkable. I take it in two-month cycles, and my skin, hair, and nails have improved immensely. A trick for when I have a cold is to take four capsules daily, and the symptoms usually pass after a couple of days.
We explored the impact of zinc-amino acids chelate on cold stress resistance in machine-transplanted early rice. Our investigation included other cold-resistant agents like uniconazole and abscisic acid, but we found zinc to be particularly effective. When applied during the regreening stage, zinc notably enhanced rice growth by promoting tillering and increasing the leaf area, which led to better yields.
We noted that zinc-amino acids chelate improved antioxidant enzyme activities, which are crucial for helping rice withstand cold temperatures. The yield of rice treated with zinc was approximately 9.22% higher than with uniconazole and 7.14% higher than with abscisic acid.
Additionally, we observed that using 750 g/ha of zinc-amino acids chelate during the transplanting and regreening stages yielded the best results. The timing of the application played a critical role, as spraying during these specific phases maximized both yield and cold resistance.
Overall, zinc treatments stand out as a promising option for improving cold stress resilience in early rice, making it a key consideration for farmers dealing with cold climate conditions.
Read More
8
Zinc mouthwash reduces cold symptoms
Efficacy of regular gargling with a cetylpyridinium chloride plus zinc containing mouthwash can reduce upper respiratory symptoms.
We explored the impact of regular gargling with an antimicrobial mouthwash that contains both cetylpyridinium chloride and zinc on upper respiratory symptoms. A total of 150 participants were split into two groups; one group just brushed their teeth, while the other group brushed and gargled with the mouthwash twice a day over three months.
Our findings revealed that those using the mouthwash experienced a 21.5% reduction in the frequency and an 11% decrease in the severity of respiratory symptoms. This strongly suggests that incorporating zinc, alongside cetylpyridinium chloride, can provide benefits for those suffering from cold-related symptoms.
However, it’s important to note that this study’s design involved multiple components, and we can’t isolate zinc’s effectiveness from the impact of the other ingredients. Still, the results encourage us to view mouthwash with these ingredients as a helpful addition to our daily hygiene routines, especially during cold and flu season.
Ultimately, this research indicates that gargling with a mouthwash containing zinc and cetylpyridinium chloride can indeed help alleviate some unpleasant cold symptoms, but we should be mindful of the combination's effects when interpreting these outcomes.
Read More
8
Zinc’s effects on colds
Zinc for prevention and treatment of the common cold: Summary of a Cochrane review.
We explored how zinc might help in treating and preventing the common cold. The study focused on zinc's effects, isolating it from other treatments to understand its true impact on cold symptoms. By doing this, the researchers aimed to clarify whether zinc could genuinely shorten the duration of a cold or alleviate its symptoms.
The findings were intriguing but showed that zinc might not yield significant benefits for everyone. While some individuals reported a slight reduction in cold symptoms, the evidence did not strongly support zinc as an effective treatment overall.
This means that, for those seeking relief from a nasty cold, zinc alone might not be the go-to solution we hoped it would be. It’s essential to consider this information when deciding on a cold treatment plan and to approach zinc with realistic expectations.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 692 Reviews
8.1
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
10
Restores sense of smell
60 people found this helpful
Zinc helped restore my sense of smell and assists with colds. I take it post meals and experienced no side effects. I use it at the onset of cold symptoms. After three days, my sense of smell returned entirely, attributed to zinc.
Read More
9
No colds!
21 people found this helpful
No illnesses in 6 months! Since starting these after my re-activation of Epstein Barr Virus in December, not only has it helped suppress the mono, but I've not been ill with any other sicknesses, including colds and flus! I take half the recommended dose each day and have not fallen sick at all in 6 months! This is significant for me, as I used to get sick often!
Read More
9
Skin improves significantly
13 people found this helpful
I have been taking zinc for over a year, and the effects are simply remarkable. I take it in two-month cycles, and my skin, hair, and nails have improved immensely. A trick for when I have a cold is to take four capsules daily, and the symptoms usually pass after a couple of days.
Read More
9
Best for cold symptoms
5 people found this helpful
The best aid for colds! I take this at the first symptoms in conjunction with 500 mg of vitamin C.
Read More
9
No nausea experienced
4 people found this helpful
This zinc does not cause nausea! Recommended by my doctor for immune support, I’ve noticed a considerable reduction in colds. It’s a quality product worth the investment!
Cold is a term that refers to a state of low temperature, often associated with a perceptibly chilly environment or the sensation of being cool to the touch. Scientifically, cold is relative to the presence and movement of heat, which is a measure of energy within matter. In everyday terms, we experience cold through weather changes, such as during winter months, and it can also be described in the context of specific temperature ranges – for example, temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) generally signify freezing conditions, which can impact outdoor activities, personal comfort, and various ecological systems.
Moreover, the sensation of cold is not solely dependent on temperature; factors like humidity and wind chill can enhance the feeling of coldness. When discussing cold in terms of human health, prolonged exposure to cold conditions can lead to hypothermia or frostbite if body heat is not effectively maintained. Hence, it's crucial to dress appropriately and take necessary precautions during colder months to prevent adverse effects. Understanding the concept of cold can help individuals better prepare for seasonal changes and ensure their comfort and safety.
Zinc is a versatile metal known for its various applications in industry and health. It is a bluish-white metallic element represented by the symbol Zn and atomic number 30 on the periodic table. Zinc is primarily used for galvanizing steel to prevent rusting, in the manufacturing of alloys, and as a component in batteries. Additionally, zinc plays a crucial role in biological processes, making it an essential trace element in the human diet. It is involved in immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, and DNA synthesis, highlighting its importance in maintaining overall health and well-being.
The potential benefits of zinc in treating the common cold have been the subject of several studies, and the results indicate that zinc may indeed play a role in reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms. Zinc is known to support immune function, which makes it a popular supplement during cold season. Some research suggests that taking zinc lozenges or syrup within 24 hours of the onset of cold symptoms can shorten the duration of the illness and help alleviate symptoms like sore throat and nasal congestion. However, it's important to note that these effects can vary from person to person, and not all studies are in agreement.
While zinc lozenges can be effective, it's crucial to avoid excessive intake, as high doses of zinc can lead to side effects such as nausea or a bad taste in the mouth. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. Overall, incorporating zinc into your routine may offer some benefits during cold season, but it should not replace other preventive measures, such as proper hygiene and vaccination against respiratory illnesses.
Based on user reviews, the time it typically takes to see results from taking zinc for cold symptoms varies, with many users reporting a noticeable improvement within a few days. For instance, one user mentioned their cold symptoms resolving in just three days after increasing their intake of zinc at the first sign of illness Read Review. Other reviews similarly indicate that symptoms often lessen or resolve quickly when zinc is taken early in the course of a cold. A participant noted that after taking four capsules daily at the onset of their cold, symptoms generally pass in a couple of days Read Review.
Moreover, several users highlight the importance of taking zinc at the first signs of cold symptoms to facilitate a quicker recovery. For instance, one review indicated that zinc helped substantially in reducing the duration of a cold, and another user asserted that symptoms dissipated swiftly when zinc was initiated early Read Review. Overall, while individual experiences may vary, many users agree that starting zinc supplementation promptly can lead to rapid alleviation of cold symptoms.
The research surrounding zinc as a supplement for alleviating cold symptoms presents mixed findings. A study investigating the effects of a mouthwash containing zinc found that users experienced a 21.5% reduction in the frequency and an 11% reduction in the severity of respiratory symptoms among participants who gargled with it twice a day over three months [1]. This suggests that while zinc, when combined with other ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride, might offer some benefits in managing cold symptoms, the specific impact of zinc alone cannot be conclusively determined due to the study's design.
On the other hand, another study focusing specifically on zinc's role in treating common colds found that while some individuals reported slight reductions in symptoms, the overall evidence did not strongly support zinc as an effective standalone treatment [2]. This indicates that while there may be specific situations where zinc could help, it may not be the most reliable solution for everyone suffering from a cold. Therefore, if you're considering zinc for cold relief, it’s crucial to have realistic expectations based on varying individual responses.
Users report a range of positive experiences when taking zinc, particularly related to alleviating cold symptoms and improving overall wellness. Many individuals highlight that initiating zinc supplementation at the first sign of cold symptoms can lead to a quicker recovery. For example, one user noted their cold symptoms disappearing entirely within three days after starting zinc Read Review. Another shared that incorporating zinc into their regimen allowed them to feel better in just a couple of days when taken in higher doses during a cold Read Review.
Additionally, users have seen improvements in other areas such as their sense of smell and overall immunity. A user reported that zinc helped restore their sense of smell in three days, attributing this recovery directly to the supplement Read Review. Another individual mentioned that consistently taking zinc throughout the cold season allowed their family to avoid illness entirely Read Review, while a different review highlighted the absence of nausea, a common concern with other supplements Read Review. Overall, while individual results can differ, a notable number of users find zinc to be an effective choice for managing cold symptoms and supporting their immune health.
Users report a strong correlation between taking zinc and combining it with other supplements, particularly vitamin C, to manage cold symptoms more effectively. Many individuals mentioned that pairing zinc with vitamin C amplified its benefits. For instance, one user stated that they took zinc alongside 500 mg of vitamin C at the first signs of a cold, enhancing their recovery experience Read Review. Similarly, others shared that the combination further supported their immune system and helped mitigate cold symptoms more swiftly Read Review.
Additionally, some users have explored combining zinc with other supplements like monolaurin, noting a quicker recovery from colds when zinc was part of their regimen Read Review. Overall, testimonials suggest that the synergistic effects of zinc with vitamin C or additional immune-supportive supplements can lead to faster symptom alleviation and improved health outcomes during cold season.
Based on user reviews, the right dose for zinc in treating cold symptoms varies somewhat, but many users report effective doses ranging from one to four capsules daily, particularly at the onset of symptoms. For instance, one user notes taking four capsules daily during a cold, which helped resolve symptoms within a couple of days Read Review. Others mention starting with one to two capsules and then increasing to two or three if symptoms arise, noting that this approach effectively alleviated their cold symptoms Read ReviewRead Review.
In addition, some users recommend consistent intake during the cold season, taking it at the first signs of illness Read Review. Notably, combining zinc with other supplements, such as vitamin C, is frequently mentioned as enhancing its effectiveness Read ReviewRead Review. Users generally report no significant side effects, which adds to the appeal of zinc for immune support during cold season.
10
Quick recovery
My cold was gone in three days.
9
Skin improves significantly
13 people found this helpful
I have been taking zinc for over a year, and the effects are simply remarkable. I take it in two-month cycles, and my skin, hair, and nails have improved immensely. A trick for when I have a cold is to take four capsules daily, and the symptoms usually pass after a couple of days.
7.5
Fights viruses
1 people found this helpful
Excellent zinc with a good dosage! I take it at the first sign of a cold, and it effectively helps combat viruses!
10
Restores sense of smell
60 people found this helpful
Zinc helped restore my sense of smell and assists with colds. I take it post meals and experienced no side effects. I use it at the onset of cold symptoms. After three days, my sense of smell returned entirely, attributed to zinc.
10
Family use during cold
This zinc is excellent! I bought it on a doctor's recommendation, and our family has been using it since autumn. Initially, we took it daily, but now we take it every other day. We have made it through the cold season without any issues!
9
Effective during colds
4 people found this helpful
Excellent! I started giving zinc to my husband at the first sign of a cold in significant doses; after a couple of days, he felt much better. A good product.
9
Best for cold symptoms
5 people found this helpful
The best aid for colds! I take this at the first symptoms in conjunction with 500 mg of vitamin C.
10
Universal solution
The best zinc; the most important thing is that it works one million percent, especially for colds in combination with vitamin C.
9
Rapid recovery
3 people found this helpful
I liked the product and am ordering my third bottle now. I took it before meals on an empty stomach, which caused nausea, but after eating, it was fine. It helped tremendously with colds, allowing me to recover much faster. When I got sick, I also took monolaurin and cat's claw separately. I usually took longer to recover, but with zinc, I felt better in just a few days. I’m delighted to find that zinc can so effectively assist with colds. Plus, I appreciate that it’s natural, sourced from brown rice chelate, and includes Vitamin C.
9
Boosts immunity
1 people found this helpful
Since taking this zinc, my hair has been growing remarkably—so many small hairs have appeared! The recommendation is two tablets daily, but I only take one, and I still experience a great effect. I consume it in courses for two months each year during cold seasons, as it boosts immunity. When I sense a cold, I increase to two tablets daily for two to three days, and the illness subsides.
9
Speeds up recovery
1 people found this helpful
I consume zinc at the first signs of cold symptoms, and they resolve much quicker. It's quite effective for enhancing overall immunity.
9
No more colds
2 people found this helpful
Excellent zinc! It's widely acknowledged how crucial zinc is for the immune system. I consume it at the earliest signs of a cold, or if I feel cold outside, and I often avoid colds for quite some time. Additionally, zinc supports reproductive health, particularly for men. It's an effective organic zinc, easy to take, and has no side effects.
8
Zinc mouthwash reduces cold symptoms
Efficacy of regular gargling with a cetylpyridinium chloride plus zinc containing mouthwash can reduce upper respiratory symptoms.
We explored the impact of regular gargling with an antimicrobial mouthwash that contains both cetylpyridinium chloride and zinc on upper respiratory symptoms. A total of 150 participants were split into two groups; one group just brushed their teeth, while the other group brushed and gargled with the mouthwash twice a day over three months.
Our findings revealed that those using the mouthwash experienced a 21.5% reduction in the frequency and an 11% decrease in the severity of respiratory symptoms. This strongly suggests that incorporating zinc, alongside cetylpyridinium chloride, can provide benefits for those suffering from cold-related symptoms.
However, it’s important to note that this study’s design involved multiple components, and we can’t isolate zinc’s effectiveness from the impact of the other ingredients. Still, the results encourage us to view mouthwash with these ingredients as a helpful addition to our daily hygiene routines, especially during cold and flu season.
Ultimately, this research indicates that gargling with a mouthwash containing zinc and cetylpyridinium chloride can indeed help alleviate some unpleasant cold symptoms, but we should be mindful of the combination's effects when interpreting these outcomes.
8
Zinc’s effects on colds
Zinc for prevention and treatment of the common cold: Summary of a Cochrane review.
We explored how zinc might help in treating and preventing the common cold. The study focused on zinc's effects, isolating it from other treatments to understand its true impact on cold symptoms. By doing this, the researchers aimed to clarify whether zinc could genuinely shorten the duration of a cold or alleviate its symptoms.
The findings were intriguing but showed that zinc might not yield significant benefits for everyone. While some individuals reported a slight reduction in cold symptoms, the evidence did not strongly support zinc as an effective treatment overall.
This means that, for those seeking relief from a nasty cold, zinc alone might not be the go-to solution we hoped it would be. It’s essential to consider this information when deciding on a cold treatment plan and to approach zinc with realistic expectations.
References
Muniz FWMG, Casarin M, Pola NM, Rösing CK, Silveira TMD, et al. Efficacy of regular gargling with a cetylpyridinium chloride plus zinc containing mouthwash can reduce upper respiratory symptoms. PLoS One. 2025;20:e0316807. 10.1371/journal.pone.0316807
Wieland LS. Zinc for prevention and treatment of the common cold: Summary of a Cochrane review. Explore (NY). 2025;21:103111. 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103111
Yuan S, Qin S, Shi Q, Chen P, Tu N, et al. Effects of different cold-resistant agents and application methods on yield and cold-resistance of machine-transplanted early rice. Front Plant Sci. 2024;15:1422374. 10.3389/fpls.2024.1422374