When you’re sniffling, sneezing, and just trying to make it through the day, it’s tempting to reach for whatever promises fast relief. But not every cold remedy delivers. Some are more myth than reality, and a few may even make you feel worse. Let’s take a closer look at the most overhyped cold cures and what gets you back on your feet.
1. Alcohol-Based Remedies: Hot Toddy and Whiskey
The notion of drinking a hot toddy to “sweat out” an illness has been around forever. Okay, fine, the heat, the lemon, the honey are comforting, but the alcohol? Uh-uh. Alcohol can dehydrate you and suppress your immune system—two things you don’t need when you expect to feel better soon.
It can also interact with over-the-counter cold medications. Even the World Health Organization has established: there is no safe level of alcohol. So if you love the warm comfort of a hot drink, have it, but without the whiskey.
2. Vitamin C: Not the Miracle It’s Made Out to Be
Vitamin C has always been promoted as a cold-fighting superhero, but science says it’s not quite so magical in this aspect. While it’s essential for general health, popping high doses when you’re already sick doesn’t really shorten your cold or make the symptoms less intense.
And megadoses—more than 2000mg a day—can cause nausea, headaches, or even digestive issues. A better approach? Stick to the daily recommended amount (90mg for men, 75mg for women) and save your orange juice for enjoyment, not emergencies.
3. Maybe That Comes with Risks
Zinc is another supplement that makes the rounds during cold and flu season. Some research claims it can cut a cold short, but the data is weak. Too much zinc (over 40mg per day) produces side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and a loss of appetite. It can also interfere with some medications, including painkillers and antibiotics. If you’re thinking about zinc, discuss it with your doctor first, and don’t think that more is better.
4. Over-the-Counter Drugs: More Isn’t Always Better
Cold and flu medications guarantee speedy relief, but they are a gamble. Numerous products have more than one active ingredient, which doubles up on substances like acetaminophen without your knowledge. That is hazardous. And for older people, some ingredients, particularly older antihistamines, can induce confusion, drowsiness, or even lead to falls. The takeaway? Read the labels, don’t mix medicines without advice, and consult a pharmacist or physician if unsure.
5. Hydration, Honey, Steam, and Plenty of Rest
So, what do you do when you get a cold? The fundamentals still work best. Dehydration helps your body to thin mucus and combat infection.
Honey will calm a sore throat and contains natural antibacterial agents—just don’t give it to infants under age one. A steamy bath will unclog sinuses and open airways.
And the final cure? Rest. Allowing your body to wind down and recover is one of the strongest things you can do.
If your cold persists for longer than 10 days, your fever doesn’t subside, or you experience any other peculiar symptoms—such as difficulty breathing or chest discomfort—it’s time to see a doctor. Cold symptoms, in most cases, will resolve themselves, but avoiding the gimmicks and sticking to what works can make the healing process much smoother.