Contact: Edward Rosick, Family and Community Medicine: (517) 355-1300, rosick@msu.edu ; or Tom Oswald, University Relations: (517) 432-0920, oswald@msu.edu
Nov. 9, 2006
EAST LANSING, Mich. — It's almost become a cliché: When you feel those first signs of a cold, reach for the vitamin C.
But for Michigan State University physician Edward Rosick, it's more than just a cliché. It's a prescription.
An osteopathic doctor whose expertise and board certification lie in integrative and preventive medicine, Rosick is a firm believer in the power of vitamin C, zinc, echinacea and other natural supplements, some of which have been used literally for centuries.
"Take zinc, for example," he said. "There are some viable studies out there that show zinc lozenges work well in decreasing the symptoms of colds."
He warns, however, that too much zinc can suppress the immune system, putting one at risk of colds, flu and other illnesses. There are also warnings that taking zinc through a nasal spray can sometimes affect a person's sense of smell.
Echinacea, also known to gardeners as purple coneflower, is a purplish flowering plant that is native to North America and "has been used for centuries to treat a variety of illnesses," Rosick said. "In particular, it is believed to be very effective in fighting off cold symptoms."
A recent analysis of three studies found that 300 milligrams of echinacea taken three times a day reduced both the incidence and symptoms of the common cold. However, Rosick pointed out that other studies have indicated that echinacea is no better than placebo in treating colds.
"I tell patients that while the jury is still out on the effectiveness of echinacea, it's a very safe herb with no significant side effects for most people if they want to try it," he said.
There are a number of other natural supplements and herbs available that can be helpful for both preventing and treating the miserable symptoms that accompany a cold.
- Andrographis and astragalus are two herbs used extensively in traditional Chinese medicine and are thought to boost the immune system and help fight off colds. Andrographis in particular has been scientifically documented in multiple studies to be effective in treating colds and flu.
- Elderberry extract has been shown to help people recover from flu symptoms four days faster then people who didn't take the extract.
- American ginseng has been shown in a large Canadian study to be effective in both treating and preventing colds and flu.
As with taking any medication – natural or otherwise – Rosick said it's always a good idea to keep your health care provider informed.
"You just never know what kind of interactions they may have with other medications you're taking," he said.
Rosick is an assistant professor in the MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine's Department of Family and Community Medicine. A graduate of the College of Osteopathic Medicine, he is board certified in integrative medicine, preventive medicine and public health.
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[Source: http://www.newsroom.msu.edu/site/indexer/2901/content.htm ]
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