With the approach of winter comes the flu season and the appearance of medications on pharmacy shelves and in health food stores claiming to shorten flu symptoms. The flu can cause side effects that can put you out of commission for a week or more, taking supplements that might shorten the duration of your misery is tempting. Several supplements lead the pack in claiming to relieve flu symptoms, but talk with your medical practitioner before taking any of them.
Zinc
Zinc helps your immune system function, and zinc lozenges and nasal sprays have gained popularity as treatments for cold and flu. Study results generally show no benefit to taking zinc when you have the flu or a cold. Studies that do show a benefit suggest that zinc works best if taken within the first 24 hours after symptoms start, MayoClinic.com states. Zinc can have a number of negative effects, however. Some people complain of nausea and a bad taste in the mouth from lozenges, and three brands of nasal spray have caused permanent damage to the ability to smell in some people, the Mayo website says. Taking more than 50 milligrams a day long-term can be dangerous, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns.
Echinacea
Several forms of echinacea, a wildflower, are used to treat colds and flu. Preparations use different parts of each variety of echinacea, which can affect the effectiveness of the products. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that one study of 95 people with cold and flu symptoms found that those taking echinacea in tea for five days felt better sooner than those not taking echinacea. The preparations and the study methods vary, which makes studies difficult to evaluate. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, along with anyone taking medications that suppress the immune system, should not take echinacea, the UMMC cautions.
Garlic
Garlic may help prevent colds and flu, the University of Rochester Medical Center states, but more studies are needed to determine its true effectiveness, the UMMC states. Garlic can increase bleeding times, so if you have a bleeding disorder or take anticoagulants, don't take garlic supplements.
