The pandemic gives us a new challenge by doing our best to adapt and try to make all the needed adjustments to protect ourselves and our loved ones. It is very important to gather information from trusted sources. The usage of supplements or herbal products is commonly safe when developed from a trustworthy brand and used according to the recommendations on the label. Below are lists of dietary supplements that have been historically used for colds or flu-like conditions.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an immune modulator that maintains a healthy immune system. This is also considered an antioxidant. People have been using colds and flu prevention for decades on its own and a component of popular cold medications. However, the effectiveness of it has never been tested by a reliable clinical study.

There is one study that is being conducted regarding the use of vitamin C as an add-on drug for patients infected with the coronavirus. However, it is only looking at severe cases that are hospitalized so the study findings will not apply to the general public.

Vitamin C can be found in broccoli, cabbages, peppers, berries, and citrus fruits. The human body requires a 100 mg daily intake of this vitamin.

Zinc

Zinc is needed for every cell function. Low levels of zinc have been associated with an impaired immune system. It can also inhibit viruses from increasing in our bodies. Zinc has been used to prevent and treat flu and the common cold. It lessens the duration of the illness if taken appropriately. To achieve these, zinc must be taken within 24 hours for the first symptoms and taken every 2 hours while awake. The dosage is 75 mg but should not be exceeded for 7 days.

There are studies shown the effects of this vitamin in patients infected with the coronavirus. However, the doses used in these trials are a lot higher compared to the said recommendations. Also, zinc was an add-on medication in the COVID-19 patients’ regimen. Too much intake of zinc supplementation is associated with a copper deficiency that could result in a lack of red blood cells. Wherein, it supplies our bodies with oxygen. Zinc can also lessen the absorption of drugs if the administration is not separated which can be challenging to people with multiple medications.

Elderberry

This is made from the flower of the black elderberry plant that contains vitamins and minerals like zinc and copper. It also has compounds called phenols and flavonoids among other molecules. Elderberry has also special compounds such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulating properties.

Elderberry has been used to treat the common cold for centuries in traditional medicine. According to a certain belief, it can shorten the duration of cold and flu-like conditions. However, there are still no certain and clear pieces of evidence of how it works. As of this moment, there are no studies that show elderberry can be used to prevent or treat the infection of coronavirus. Elderberry is not dangerous when consumed in moderation.