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
7.5
Eases cold symptoms
230 people found this helpful
With numerous health issues such as primary immunodeficiency and dermatitis, I frequently need to use medicine, especially during winter when viruses are rampant. I prefer the chelated form of zinc, which has shown positive effects. The recent illness was milder and without complications, and my skin condition improved as well. Zinc helps make cold symptoms much more bearable and speeds recovery. However, it's vital to note the compatibility of zinc with other supplements. I truly recommend this manufacturer.
Read More
9
Disease prevention
27 people found this helpful
Excellent zinc at a good price. I always keep it handy for colds and viruses. At the first sign of illness, we combine it with vitamin C. Taking this combination early can prevent disease progression and often lead to recovery within 3-5 days, helping my family avoid the spread of viruses.
Read More
9
Prevents winter colds
14 people found this helpful
I’ve enjoyed a winter without a single cold! I use zinc alongside vitamin D3 and C, ensuring I take it after meals to avoid nausea. My family members have stayed healthy while others frequently visit pharmacies. I recommend this to anyone looking for immunity support.
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
Moderately Good
Based on 909 Reviews
7.8
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
7.5
Eases cold symptoms
230 people found this helpful
With numerous health issues such as primary immunodeficiency and dermatitis, I frequently need to use medicine, especially during winter when viruses are rampant. I prefer the chelated form of zinc, which has shown positive effects. The recent illness was milder and without complications, and my skin condition improved as well. Zinc helps make cold symptoms much more bearable and speeds recovery. However, it's vital to note the compatibility of zinc with other supplements. I truly recommend this manufacturer.
Read More
9
Disease prevention
27 people found this helpful
Excellent zinc at a good price. I always keep it handy for colds and viruses. At the first sign of illness, we combine it with vitamin C. Taking this combination early can prevent disease progression and often lead to recovery within 3-5 days, helping my family avoid the spread of viruses.
Read More
9
Prevents winter colds
14 people found this helpful
I’ve enjoyed a winter without a single cold! I use zinc alongside vitamin D3 and C, ensuring I take it after meals to avoid nausea. My family members have stayed healthy while others frequently visit pharmacies. I recommend this to anyone looking for immunity support.
Read More
7.5
Illness prevention
14 people found this helpful
In a chelated form, this zinc helped me through many colds in the autumn-winter period, preventing illness.
Read More
7.5
Reduces cold severity
12 people found this helpful
Zinc in a chelated form is well absorbed and, even at a lower dosage of 30 mg, helps lessen the impact of colds and viral infections. It also plays a role in the absorption of essential vitamins and supports faster recovery after Covid. The capsules are easy to take, and I appreciate the health benefits they offer.
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 seeing results within a short time frame after starting zinc supplementation, particularly when taken at the initial signs of a cold. For example, some users mention that by taking zinc combined with other vitamins like C and D, they experience a significant reduction in cold symptoms and even complete symptom disappearance within just a couple of days. One user noted that taking 2 capsules over 3 days was effective in entirely eliminating their cold symptoms Read Review. Additionally, several others corroborate that starting zinc immediately at the first signs of illness can lead to recovery within 3 to 5 days Read Review.
Moreover, others have found that a regular intake during the cold season helps in not getting sick at all Read Review. Overall, while individual experiences may vary, many users emphasize the importance of timing and suggest that early intervention with zinc can lead to noticeable improvement in cold symptoms within a few days.
The findings on zinc as a supplement for alleviating cold symptoms are mixed. One study highlighted the potential benefits of using a mouthwash containing zinc, which, when combined with cetylpyridinium chloride, resulted in a notable 21.5% reduction in the frequency of respiratory symptoms and an 11% decrease in their severity. While this suggests that zinc may play a role in easing cold symptoms, it is crucial to note that the study's design complicates the isolation of zinc's effects from those of other ingredients in the mouthwash [1]. Thus, while there is some evidence to support the idea that zinc can provide relief, its effectiveness in isolation remains uncertain.
On the other hand, another study that specifically examined zinc’s role in treating common colds found that it may not produce significant benefits for everyone. Although a few individuals reported minor improvements in their symptoms, the evidence did not robustly endorse zinc as a reliable treatment for the common cold [2]. Therefore, if you're considering zinc supplements for cold relief, it's wise to manage expectations and consider them as just one part of a broader approach to cold management.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have shared notable improvements in their symptoms after incorporating zinc into their health routines, particularly during cold and flu season. Users frequently reported that taking zinc at the first signs of illness significantly reduced the severity and duration of their symptoms. For instance, one user stated that a combination of zinc with vitamins C and D led to complete symptom disappearance in just a few days Read Review, while another noted that this approach allowed their family to avoid the spread of viruses entirely Read Review.
Additionally, several reviews indicate that regular zinc supplementation has contributed to a strengthened immune response, helping to prevent illnesses. One user highlighted that they didn't catch a single cold throughout the winter months while consistently using zinc alongside other vitamins Read Review. Another mentioned that their experience with zinc transformed their health, maintaining overall well-being even when surrounded by viruses Read Review. However, it's essential to note that individual results can vary, and while many experienced these positive changes, some users may not share the same outcomes.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have shared positive experiences when combining zinc with other supplements for managing cold symptoms. Users frequently reported that taking zinc alongside vitamin C significantly enhances its effectiveness. For instance, one user noted that combining zinc with vitamin C at the first signs of illness not only helped to prevent disease progression but also led to recovery within 3 to 5 days, benefiting their entire family by avoiding the spread of viruses Read Review. Another user echoed this sentiment, stating that they found using zinc in conjunction with vitamins C and D3 to be particularly effective, ultimately leading to a winter without a single cold Read Review.
Moreover, several users emphasized their preference for zinc in a chelated form, which they believe contributes to better absorption when supplemented with vitamins like C and D. One user mentioned that taking zinc, vitamin C, and monolaurin helped eliminate illness symptoms entirely Read Review. The consensus among users highlights that early intervention with zinc and the right combination of additional vitamins can lead to significant improvements in cold symptoms, reinforcing the importance of these synergies during cold and flu season.
Users frequently highlighted the importance of taking zinc at the onset of cold symptoms to enhance its effectiveness. A common recommendation was to combine zinc with vitamin C, reporting that this combination could lead to quicker recovery times, often within 3-5 days Read Review. Many users suggested a dosage around 30 mg, especially in a chelated form, which they found easier to absorb and effective at diminishing cold symptoms Read Review.
Additionally, some users reported taking higher doses, especially at the first signs of illness, believing that this helped reduce the duration of their colds significantly Read Review. A few noted that while using zinc, it is crucial to take it with food to avoid potential nausea Read Review. The general consensus among the reviews is that zinc, particularly in the chelated form and in combination with other vitamins, plays a significant role in both treatment and prevention of cold-related illnesses.
9
Effective against cold
5 people found this helpful
I started taking these vitamins for my hair because zinc reduces androgen production. After a month, I noticed fewer hair issues. Its main advantage, however, is that if I take 2 capsules for 3 days, the cold completely disappears. Just ensure to take it after a meal to avoid nausea.
9
Disease prevention
27 people found this helpful
Excellent zinc at a good price. I always keep it handy for colds and viruses. At the first sign of illness, we combine it with vitamin C. Taking this combination early can prevent disease progression and often lead to recovery within 3-5 days, helping my family avoid the spread of viruses.
10
Prevents cold
2 people found this helpful
This has saved me from the common cold all autumn! It works exceptionally well; I didn’t catch a single cold while taking it, which is a relief!
9
Prevents winter colds
14 people found this helpful
I’ve enjoyed a winter without a single cold! I use zinc alongside vitamin D3 and C, ensuring I take it after meals to avoid nausea. My family members have stayed healthy while others frequently visit pharmacies. I recommend this to anyone looking for immunity support.
9
Life-changing
8 people found this helpful
Zinc has transformed my life! I used to be often ill and constantly caught cold. After trying zinc, I no longer experience nausea with it. I primarily take it during autumn and winter, or if I sense a cold coming, I immediately start with zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin D, leading to symptom disappearance in a couple of days. I highly recommend everyone to stock up on these vitamins!
9
Impressive defence against colds
3 people found this helpful
I appreciated this zinc as it prevents me from feeling unwell, unlike other brands. Zinc is an essential aid during viral infections, helping me recover quickly without getting ill. For the last two years, I've only had minor symptoms. At the first signs, I consume Vitamin C, zinc, monolaurin, and turmeric drinks, which help eliminate the illness.
7.5
Reduces cold severity
12 people found this helpful
Zinc in a chelated form is well absorbed and, even at a lower dosage of 30 mg, helps lessen the impact of colds and viral infections. It also plays a role in the absorption of essential vitamins and supports faster recovery after Covid. The capsules are easy to take, and I appreciate the health benefits they offer.
9
Effective in illness
2 people found this helpful
We tried zinc based on a recommendation, and at the first sign of a cold, I double the dose. It really does help minimise the duration of the illness and aids recovery. I will order more!
9
Promotes quicker recovery
4 people found this helpful
Chelated zinc is excellently absorbed. During cold season, I take one capsule daily with food, as an empty stomach can lead to headaches. We monitor our zinc levels with blood tests to avoid excess. It supports immunity and has anti-inflammatory effects, helping my recovery. I also take vitamin C and D3 to bolster my family's health.
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