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
9
Great for colds
326 people found this helpful
This supplement is excellent for colds and flu. Despite recommending limited use, when I fell ill, taking it twice daily cleared my symptoms swiftly. Zinc strengthens the immune system and combats viruses. Alternative products often contain harsh additives, but this is gentler and effective.
Read More
9
Effective prevention
148 people found this helpful
Excellent zinc, I take it during the cold season for prevention, and I recommend it to everyone!
Read More
10
Miracle for colds
94 people found this helpful
This product has prevented me from needing antibiotics for respiratory infections, effectively warding off colds and flu. When I felt a sore throat developing, within hours of taking it, I felt significantly better, and the symptoms disappeared the next day.
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 1137 Reviews
8
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Great for colds
326 people found this helpful
This supplement is excellent for colds and flu. Despite recommending limited use, when I fell ill, taking it twice daily cleared my symptoms swiftly. Zinc strengthens the immune system and combats viruses. Alternative products often contain harsh additives, but this is gentler and effective.
Read More
9
Effective prevention
148 people found this helpful
Excellent zinc, I take it during the cold season for prevention, and I recommend it to everyone!
Read More
10
Miracle for colds
94 people found this helpful
This product has prevented me from needing antibiotics for respiratory infections, effectively warding off colds and flu. When I felt a sore throat developing, within hours of taking it, I felt significantly better, and the symptoms disappeared the next day.
Read More
9
Quick recovery
85 people found this helpful
The quality is excellent. I used it during a cold and recovered quickly in two days. It boosts immunity and has helped reduce my hair loss over two weeks.
Read More
9
Increased resistance
25 people found this helpful
Perfectly During viral infections, I take zinc with vitamin C from Solgar to reduce the risk of getting sick. The maximum daily dose of zinc should not exceed 22 mg. With regular intake of zinc and vitamin C, my body’s resistance to viruses increases. Even if cold symptoms appear, they pass much easier and faster than usual.
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, many individuals report experiencing results within a short timeframe when taking zinc supplements for colds. Several users indicate a noticeable improvement in their cold symptoms after just one to two days of use. For instance, one user mentioned recovering quickly within two days while using the supplement during a cold Read Review. Another user shared that they start to feel relief from symptoms in about two to three days with increased dosing at the onset of a cold Read Review.
Additionally, users emphasized the importance of starting zinc at the first signs of illness for optimal results. One reviewer specifically noted that symptoms tend to recede within two to three days when taking zinc during early symptoms of a cold Read Review. Another pointed out that supplementing zinc alongside other vitamins can enhance effectiveness against colds, highlighting the general consensus that early intervention is key to faster recovery Read Review.
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.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in their cold symptoms when taking zinc supplements, often highlighting rapid recovery times. For instance, one user noted that they recovered quickly in just two days of using zinc during a cold Read Review. Other users echo this sentiment, with mentions of symptoms easing within two to three days when they start zinc at the first signs of illness Read Review. Moreover, users commonly discuss the preventative benefits of zinc, as one reviewer shared that their frequency of colds diminished significantly after incorporating zinc into their routine Read Review.
Users also emphasize that combining zinc with other vitamins, such as vitamin C, can enhance its effectiveness. Several reviews suggest that this combination not only promotes faster recovery but also boosts overall immune response during cold seasons Read Review. While individual results can vary, the general consensus among these anecdotes points to zinc's potential as a reliable supplement for both prevention and relief during cold symptoms, underscoring its growing popularity among users eager for effective immune support.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report that combining zinc with other supplements, particularly vitamin C, enhances its efficacy in managing colds. For example, users have noted that pairing zinc with vitamin C leads to faster recovery times and reduces the severity of symptoms when cold symptoms first appear Read Review. One user specifically mentioned that taking zinc along with vitamins C and D helped ensure that their cold passed quickly Read Review.
Additionally, some users appreciate combinations that include copper, suggesting that this pairing is effective not only for colds but for overall immune support. For instance, a reviewer highlights taking zinc with copper daily, claiming that this mix has helped prevent illnesses during cold season Read Review. Likewise, another user found that zinc combined with elderberry syrup provided significant benefits, noting its role in maintaining health while traveling during cold seasons Read Review. Overall, the consensus among users points to the effectiveness of combining zinc with other supplements in boosting immunity and providing relief from cold symptoms.
Users have shared their experiences regarding the appropriate dosage of Zinc for effectively treating colds, with many noting that taking it at the first sign of illness seems to yield positive results. Reviewers commonly recommend taking one capsule for prevention and increasing the dosage to two capsules upon the onset of cold symptoms. For instance, one user reported that they take one capsule in the morning for prevention, and two when they notice cold signs, leading to effective immune support Read Review. Another reviewer mentioned improving their recovery time with a similar approach, stating they experienced a quicker resolution of illness when they increased their intake to two capsules Read Review.
Moreover, some users indicated that the ideal daily dosage for Zinc shouldn't exceed 22 mg Read Review. Several users praised the combination of Zinc with vitamin C or other supportive supplements, such as elderberry, to enhance its efficacy during cold season Read Review. Overall, user reviews advocate for a proactive approach to taking Zinc, emphasizing timely dosage adjustments to maximize health benefits during cold outbreaks.
9
Quick recovery
85 people found this helpful
The quality is excellent. I used it during a cold and recovered quickly in two days. It boosts immunity and has helped reduce my hair loss over two weeks.
9
Speeds up recovery
1 people found this helpful
I start taking this at the first sign of a cold. The illness tends to recede within 2-3 days. I get sick much less often and keep it on hand, particularly for winter.
10
Quick cold relief
1 people found this helpful
Cool zinc is essential, especially in the cold season! At the first signs of a cold, take zinc along with vitamins C and D in large quantities to ensure the cold passes quickly. Consult your doctor for proper dosage!
10
Colds disappeared
1 people found this helpful
I bought Zinc Balance on friends' recommendation due to frequent colds. The result? Colds have almost vanished from my life. I'm delighted! Zinc has significantly addressed my cold problems, and I appreciate the quality of this BUD with a proper number of capsules for the course. I will order more to maintain my immunity!
9
Increased resistance
25 people found this helpful
Perfectly During viral infections, I take zinc with vitamin C from Solgar to reduce the risk of getting sick. The maximum daily dose of zinc should not exceed 22 mg. With regular intake of zinc and vitamin C, my body’s resistance to viruses increases. Even if cold symptoms appear, they pass much easier and faster than usual.
10
Pandemic protection
2 people found this helpful
Excellent zinc paired with copper. Since zinc and copper are antagonists, Jarrow has created a combined preparation. I liked it immensely. During the pandemic, I took it daily and didn’t experience any colds. It's beneficial to take in conjunction with EGCG or quercetin to enhance zinc absorption in the cells. Stay healthy!
9
Essential for wellness
3 people found this helpful
Zinc combined with copper is a staple in my medicine cabinet, essential for trips and maintaining immunity. At the first signs of a cold, I take zinc along with vitamin C and elderberry syrup. It promotes healthy skin, hair, nails, and teeth, while a zinc deficiency can lead to fatigue and slow healing. These small capsules are easy to use, and I highly recommend keeping one in your first-aid kit.
9
Effective prophylaxis
3 people found this helpful
Excellent zinc! It’s easily assimilated, and I haven't been sick while taking it. I use one every morning for prevention and take two when cold symptoms appear. It seems to help my immune system fight effectively.
9
Aids quick recovery
1 people found this helpful
I recommend this reliable product. The company has convenient packaging, and the small capsules have no side effects. During a cold, I upped my dose to two capsules and recovered very quickly.
9
Instant cold relief
1 people found this helpful
I love zinc for its immediate help with colds. Previously, I tried pure zinc, but this combination with copper works even better—it’s two benefits in one.
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. doi: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. doi: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. doi:10.3389/fpls.2024.1422374