Endocrinologist G. Bly named the most popular cold treatments that actually do not provide benefits. This was reported by Infosalus.
According to the specialist, it has not been scientifically proven that onions can alleviate cold symptoms. On the contrary, their smell irritates the eyes and respiratory tract. It has also not been confirmed that taking vitamin C prevents the development of the illness.
Garlic does contain substances with moderate antimicrobial effects, the doctor noted. However, there is no evidence that it treats or prevents colds. Moreover, garlic can irritate the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract.
Inhaling hot steam is also ineffective: it may temporarily ease breathing but does not kill viruses and can burn the respiratory tract. It is not advisable to treat oneself with echinacea and other herbal remedies — studies show that they are useless in fighting colds.
According to the medical professional, data on the effectiveness of zinc lozenges remains controversial. They may shorten the duration of the illness, but only if taken within the first day. At the same time, the remedy has unpleasant side effects — nausea and toxicity with excessive use.
To recover from a cold more quickly, the doctor recommended consuming honey, gargling, rinsing the nose with saline, drinking plenty of fluids, and using a humidifier in the room.
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