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SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 17 Researches
7.6
USERS' SCORE
Excellent
Based on 56 Reviews
9
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Teaspoons (10 ml)
Serving Per Container: 12
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Calories
25
Total Carbohydrate
7 g
3%†
Total Sugars
7 g
**
Includes 3.1 g Added Sugars
6.2%
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
110 mg
122%
Zinc (as zinc gluconate)
2.6 mg
24%
Black Elderberry Extract
3.8 g
**
Top Medical Research Studies
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.
Direct effect on cold 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.
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.
Highly relevant to cold treatments
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.
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.
Focused on vitamin C and colds
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.
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
9.5
Faster cold recovery
Excellent medication; undoubtedly the best from this brand. At the initial symptoms of a cold, the immune support is exceptional. I buy it for my children and have noticed the results. Their colds genuinely pass more swiftly and easily compared to other children in their class, especially when used alongside other treatments. It boasts a significant amount of antioxidants and vastly outperforms other herbal remedies against the influenza virus. Black elder offers diaphoretic, bactericidal, and anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s most effective on the first day, hence should be taken as soon as symptoms arise. This remedy quickly helps us recover from ARVI and flu.
Read More
9.5
Immediate symptom relief
A fantastic solution! Upon noticing the first signs of a cold, I promptly give it to my child, and the next day, there’s no coughing or sneezing.
Read More
8.8
Cold season helper
Superb syrup! It’s incredibly effective during the cold season!
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 17 Researches
7.6
9
Vitamin C aids common cold recovery
Vitamin C as a Supplementary Therapy in Relieving Symptoms of the Common Cold: A Meta-Analysis of 10 Randomized Controlled Trials.
Moderate relevance due to combination therapy
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.
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.
Zinc's effect combined, not isolated
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.
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.
Direct effect on cold 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.
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.
Directly addresses cold treatment
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.
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.
Directly addresses elderberry effectiveness
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.
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.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Excellent
Based on 56 Reviews
9
10
Highly effective
Works fabulously! This elderberry syrup is incredibly effective, providing relief from the first minutes of intake during a common cold. For three months, I’ve remained illness-free! Its all-natural ingredients are wonderful, and the large packaging offers excellent value compared to other cold remedies. This syrup will always have a place in my medicine cabinet!
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10
Must-have aid
Elderberry syrup, along with echinacea, is essential for combating a common cold. Starting it at the first signs of illness prevents its development. It has an antipyretic effect, is suitable for both adults and children, and tastes good. This syrup is a must-have in the first aid kit.
Read More
9.5
Faster cold recovery
Excellent medication; undoubtedly the best from this brand. At the initial symptoms of a cold, the immune support is exceptional. I buy it for my children and have noticed the results. Their colds genuinely pass more swiftly and easily compared to other children in their class, especially when used alongside other treatments. It boasts a significant amount of antioxidants and vastly outperforms other herbal remedies against the influenza virus. Black elder offers diaphoretic, bactericidal, and anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s most effective on the first day, hence should be taken as soon as symptoms arise. This remedy quickly helps us recover from ARVI and flu.
Read More
9.5
Immediate symptom relief
A fantastic solution! Upon noticing the first signs of a cold, I promptly give it to my child, and the next day, there’s no coughing or sneezing.
9.5
Effective remedy
An excellent remedy for colds. I previously purchased just elderberry syrup and was satisfied, but this version with vitamin C and zinc bolsters immunity further. I give it to my seven-year-old daughter at the onset of a cold, and the results are evident. Within three days, the first signs of a cold and a mild cough vanished. We experienced slight throat reddening, but there was no fever. The syrup’s pleasant taste and aroma make it very easy for children to take.
Read More
