Onions, garlic, vitamin C, steam inhalation and herbal remedies (Echinacea) have no proven efficacy in treating colds, said Dr. Guadalupe Blay (National University of Distance Education of Spain) in an interview with Infosalus.
He emphasized that none of these folk remedies can eliminate the virus or significantly alleviate the disease. The smell of onions can further irritate the mucous membranes, and garlic, despite its moderate antibacterial properties, can cause stomach upset.
The doctor also warned against inhaling hot steam. although it may temporarily relieve nasal congestion, steam does not kill viruses. Moreover, careless inhalation increases the risk of respiratory tract burns. Blay emphasized that the use of echinacea and other herbal remedies is not clinically proven and is not recommended.
"The data on zinc lozenges are conflicting. when used during the first 24 hours, they can shorten the duration of the disease, but side effects are possible, including nausea and toxicity," the expert noted.
The doctor mentioned the following as effective remedies for colds: using honey, rinsing the nose with saline solution, gargling the throat, humidifying the air and drinking plenty of fluids.
Translation:Euromedia24.com-in:
