started · updated
Science-backed home remedies for common cold relief
Scientific evidence supports several home remedies for managing common cold symptoms, including honey, saline nasal rinses, and zinc supplements.
Honey can help coat the throat to reduce the frequency and intensity of coughing. Research suggests its benefits in children may be comparable to over-the-counter medications like dextromethorphan. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics warns that honey must never be given to infants under one year old due to the risk of fatal infant botulism.
Saline nasal rinses are effective for clearing nasal passages and reducing congestion. To prevent serious infections, it is essential to use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled water rather than tap water when preparing homemade solutions.
Zinc supplements may reduce the duration of cold symptoms by approximately two days, according to a 2024 study, although they do not appear to prevent the onset of a cold. Users should be cautious of potential side effects such as stomach upset.
Entities
American Academy of Pediatrics · Geeta Sood · Johns Hopkins University
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] When preparing homemade saline solutions, only distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled water should be used to avoid infection. diariodelcauca.com.co · www.hsbnoticias.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] In children, honey may provide benefits similar to dextromethorphan and be more effective than diphenhydramine for cough frequency.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Honey can significantly reduce coughing and indirectly alleviate throat pain.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Saline nasal rinses can clear nasal passages, reduce secretion viscosity, and relieve congestion. diariodelcauca.com.co · www.hsbnoticias.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Honey should not be given to infants under one year old due to the risk of infant botulism. diariodelcauca.com.co · www.hsbnoticias.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Zinc supplements may reduce the duration of cold symptoms by approximately two days, though they do not prevent infection. diariodelcauca.com.co · www.hsbnoticias.com