Americans have an estimated billion colds each year, according to PubMed Health. The remedies intended to ease cold symptoms, such as a runny nose, congestion, sneezing or sore throat, are numerous. Almost everyone has a favorite remedy. One folk remedy for cold symptoms is vanilla extract. However, there is no scientific evidence that vanilla extract can soothe the symptoms of the common cold.
The Common Cold
The common cold is caused by a virus, but more than 100 different viruses can cause cold symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com. Because these viruses are so numerous, scientists have been unable to develop a vaccine for the common cold. You can contract a cold through breathing in a virus particle from the sneeze or cough of someone suffering from a cold, or from touching an object or surface contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth or nose.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract is made by aging vanilla beans in alcohol, according to Linda Carucci, author of "Cooking School Secrets for Real World Cooks." Vanilla is added as a flavor enhancer for desserts. Pure vanilla extract contains alcohol, which may numb the pain of a sore throat, but drinking large quantities of vanilla extract can lead to illness or intoxication, neither of which are helpful for a cold. Vanilla extract has no scientifically proven health benefits, for a cold or otherwise.
Other Natural Remedies
There is no scientific evidence that herbs, such as echinacea or goldenseal, or vitamin C supplements can combat a cold or cold symptoms. Nevertheless, popular books on "natural" cures continue to make such claims. For example, according to James Balch and Mark Stengler, authors of "Prescription for Natural Cures," echinacea may have anti-viral properties that help fight a cold. These and other natural remedies probably won't harm you, but there's no reason to believe they will help.
Over-the-Counter Medicines
Although they won't cure your cold, some over-the-counter medicines may ease your symptoms. Choose a medicine that is appropriate for your age or the age of the cold sufferer. A child should not take an adult's cold medicine, for example. In addition, make sure that the medication you choose will not cause an interaction with any prescription medications that you are currently taking. Finally, choose a medicine that matches your symptoms -- for example, if you're not stuffy, you don't need a decongestant.
Member Comments