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
Quick to recover
14 people found this helpful
This zinc helped me overcome a cold, and my boyfriend is thrilled with the results. He recovered from his cold in two days. He believes every man should monitor zinc levels. We did notice some tingling when taken consecutively, but overall, these vitamins are worthwhile.
Read More
9
Reduces illnesses
4 people found this helpful
Our family takes chelated zinc from autumn to spring and we have stopped catching colds. This supplement is genuinely effective.
Read More
9
Restores immunity
2 people found this helpful
Everyone knows about zinc. Since I first bought it for corona, I have consistently purchased various products. At the first sign of a cold, I administer one tablet a day to anyone unwell, as it greatly aids in restoring immunity and general health. This product's quality and dosage are impressive.
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 121 Reviews
8
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Quick to recover
14 people found this helpful
This zinc helped me overcome a cold, and my boyfriend is thrilled with the results. He recovered from his cold in two days. He believes every man should monitor zinc levels. We did notice some tingling when taken consecutively, but overall, these vitamins are worthwhile.
Read More
9
Reduces illnesses
4 people found this helpful
Our family takes chelated zinc from autumn to spring and we have stopped catching colds. This supplement is genuinely effective.
Read More
9
Restores immunity
2 people found this helpful
Everyone knows about zinc. Since I first bought it for corona, I have consistently purchased various products. At the first sign of a cold, I administer one tablet a day to anyone unwell, as it greatly aids in restoring immunity and general health. This product's quality and dosage are impressive.
Read More
9
Strengthens immunity
2 people found this helpful
This is absolutely the best dietary supplement! Since I began taking zinc three years ago, I rarely suffer from serious colds. Even if I catch a virus, it presents much milder symptoms. Highly recommended!
Read More
10
Immediate response
Where would we be without zinc! At the first signs of a cold, I increase my dosage for a few days, and everything is fine!
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 takes to see results from taking zinc for colds can vary, but many users report noticeable improvement within just a couple of days. For instance, one user noted that their boyfriend recovered from a cold in just two days after starting zinc supplementation Read Review. Another user claimed that symptoms vanished within 2-3 days of taking one tablet daily at the first signs of a cold Read Review.
Additionally, some users reported that consistently using zinc helped them avoid catching colds altogether, suggesting a preventative effect when taken regularly during the cold season Read Review. Overall, many reviews support the idea that zinc can be a quick and effective remedy for alleviating cold symptoms when taken early.
The use of zinc as a supplement for treating cold symptoms has garnered some attention in scientific research, primarily focusing on its potential benefits. One study investigated the effectiveness of a mouthwash containing zinc, among other ingredients, which resulted in a notable 21.5% reduction in the frequency and an 11% decrease in the severity of respiratory symptoms among participants who gargled regularly. This suggests that zinc could contribute positively to alleviating cold-related symptoms, though the study's design prevents us from isolating zinc's impact from the other components of the mouthwash [1].
However, when examining zinc's efficacy as a standalone treatment for the common cold, research indicates that its benefits may not be universal. A separate study found that, while some individuals experienced slight reductions in symptoms, the evidence did not convincingly support zinc as a comprehensive solution for all patients suffering from colds [2]. This mixed evidence underscores the importance of approaching zinc supplementation with realistic expectations, suggesting that while it may help some individuals, relying on it solely as a cold remedy might not yield significant benefits for everyone.
Users report a wide range of improvements when using zinc for managing cold symptoms. Many individuals have experienced quick recovery, with several mentioning that their symptoms diminished within just a couple of days of initiating zinc supplementation. For example, one user observed their symptoms vanish in 2-3 days after taking one tablet daily at the first signs of a cold Read Review. Another user reported that their boyfriend recovered from a cold in just two days of zinc use Read Review. Furthermore, other users emphasized that maintaining regular zinc intake, especially during cold seasons, has significantly reduced their incidence of colds altogether, suggesting notable preventive benefits Read Review.
Many reviewers highlighted that zinc not only assists in alleviating cold symptoms but also strengthens overall immune health, leading to milder illness experiences. One long-term user reported that since taking zinc, they rarely suffer from serious colds, and when they do catch a virus, the symptoms are much less severe Read Review. These anecdotal experiences indicate that while individual results can vary, zinc appears to be a valuable supplement for those seeking to manage or prevent colds effectively.
Based on user reviews, many consumers have reported positive experiences when combining zinc with other supplements, particularly vitamin C, to tackle cold symptoms. For instance, one user mentioned that zinc and vitamin C together significantly prevent the development of infections when taken early during illness Read Review. They highlighted using this combination as an emergency kit addition, resulting in effective outcomes. Additionally, another reviewer echoed similar sentiments, noting that zinc works excellently paired with vitamin C Read Review.
Moreover, several users have reported that taking larger doses of zinc along with vitamin C at the first signs of a cold provides fast relief and accelerates recovery. One particular user said they regularly use a higher dosage of zinc and vitamin C to combat colds, with the regimen yielding effective results in shortening the duration of illness Read Review. Overall, the feedback suggests that the combination of zinc with other supplements enhances immune function and expedites recovery from colds, making it a favorite strategy for many users during cold and flu season.
Based on user reviews, there appears to be a consensus on the effectiveness of zinc for combating colds, with users emphasizing the importance of proper dosage. Many users report taking a single tablet at the onset of cold symptoms, which they find helps mitigate the duration and severity of their illness. For instance, one user noted that they administer one tablet daily at the first sign of a cold, highlighting its impact on restoring immunity (Read Review). Additionally, some users suggest increasing the dosage during the initial days of cold symptoms, indicating that this strategy can lead to quicker recovery times (Read Review).
Others recommend taking multiple tablets per day during colder months for preventive measures, with families echoing this approach widely, citing substantially reduced instances of illness (Read Review). Specific doses vary among users, but a recurring theme is that zinc should be taken proactively and can be particularly effective when combined with vitamin C for enhanced immunity (Read Review). Overall, users find that a thoughtful application of zinc can lead to a stronger immune response and faster recovery from cold symptoms.
9
Quick to recover
14 people found this helpful
This zinc helped me overcome a cold, and my boyfriend is thrilled with the results. He recovered from his cold in two days. He believes every man should monitor zinc levels. We did notice some tingling when taken consecutively, but overall, these vitamins are worthwhile.
9
Symptom relief
I really liked Solgar's zinc, a powerful immunomodulator. At the first symptoms of a cold, I take one tablet, and in 2-3 days, the symptoms vanish. This should always be in your medicine cabinet!
9
Reduces illnesses
4 people found this helpful
Our family takes chelated zinc from autumn to spring and we have stopped catching colds. This supplement is genuinely effective.
9
Strengthens immunity
2 people found this helpful
This is absolutely the best dietary supplement! Since I began taking zinc three years ago, I rarely suffer from serious colds. Even if I catch a virus, it presents much milder symptoms. Highly recommended!
9
Emergency during colds
I recently discovered the remarkable benefits of zinc combined with vitamin C. They prevent infection's development when taken early in an illness. I've tested this myself, and it works excellently! I keep it in my cabinet like an emergency kit during colds. I recommend using vitamins over chemicals to fight viruses.
9
Symptom alleviant
Good zinc from a reputable brand. When combined with vitamin C, it reliably alleviates the symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections and colds.
9
Works effectively
I always keep zinc at home. At the onset of a cold, I take a sizeable dose of zinc, vitamin C, etc. They work excellently!
9
Restores immunity
2 people found this helpful
Everyone knows about zinc. Since I first bought it for corona, I have consistently purchased various products. At the first sign of a cold, I administer one tablet a day to anyone unwell, as it greatly aids in restoring immunity and general health. This product's quality and dosage are impressive.
10
Immediate response
Where would we be without zinc! At the first signs of a cold, I increase my dosage for a few days, and everything is fine!
9
Family use
Our whole family takes chelated zinc from autumn to spring. We've stopped suffering from colds, so this supplement is truly effective.
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