Common Cold Remedies: Which Ones Work, Which Ones Don't

The common cold is, well, pretty common. WebMD stated that the symptoms, which include a runny nose, a scratchy throat and fits of sneezing, are really hard to miss. However, before you go and try your favorite home remedies, it's best to understand what a cold is and what remedies do and don't work against it.

The common cold is a viral infection of your nose and throat, Mayo Clinic shared. It's usually harmless but shows varying symptoms depending on any one of the more than 100 viruses that cause it. Although kids are at the greatest risk of contracting a cold, even healthy adults can have it too.

Thinking of a remedy for the cold? Here's a quick guide to what does and what does not work, shared by Today.

What Works

Honey

This sweet gift of nature works, said Today. Mixed with either tea or warm water and lemon, honey is helpful in alleviating sore throat for adults and coughing in children.

In one study, kids two and older that had respiratory tract infections were given up to 2 teaspoons of honey before sleeping. They were reported to have better sleep and less coughing.

Despite that, Today warned against giving honey to children younger than 1 as there is a possible risk for a rare form of food poisoning called infant botulism.

Zinc

Research has found that zinc, when taken as supplements during the first few days of a cold, may shorten the duration of a cold. However, be warned that it is toxic in high doses.

Hot Liquids

Hot liquids such as tea works in helping ease congestion, sniffles and sneezing.

Researchers from the Common Cold Center at Cardiff University found that hot beverages helped relieved the symptoms of cold way better than drinks at room temperature. Other studies found that hot foods like chicken soup also worked.

Salt Water

Rinsing with salt water does help in breaking nasal congestion and cleaning out the sinuses. However, Today advised using only distilled, sterile or previously boiled water in making the solution, otherwise there's a risk of infection.

What Doesn't Work

Vitamin C

Surprised? According to Today, research shows that taking vitamin C against colds only help when the person already has a deficiency in the vitamin when the cold happens. People living in cold climates, for example, might have low levels of vitamin C and, for them supplements might work. Otherwise, exercise will help.

Chili peppers

Although some people might believe that this finger-sized dynamite helps clear up congestion, Today reported that experts do not say so.

Echinacea

NBC News reported that this herbal remedy doesn't help prevent or treat colds. Despite being touted as medicine for centuries, numerous research hasn't found enough evidence that it really helps, Today shared.

Garlic, however, can be helpful in preventing the colds.