Echinachea zinc+ vit c tablets?!

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Echinachea and also vitamin C unfortunately wont influence a cold once it is started.They are only good preventatives only
Zinc 45 mg/day over a short period will not hurt you.
For bad cold- total rest, in which state your own immune system works best is the best cure.

I've been taking upwards of 100mg of zinc sulfate per day, for around two weeks, and I haven't noticed any negative effects. However, if you experience stomach problems or nausea, you should reduce the amount a little. (It's not a big problem, but upset stomachs are no good. The upset is usually caused by zinc sulfate, but some other types can affect the stomach in the same way. If you experience nausea from zinc, take a little of something alkaline to balance things out.)

Also, if you experience headaches from zinc supplementation, it could be a sign that you're either iron or copper anemic -- but the headache isn't necessarily >caused< by the zinc, so your problem wouldn't be that. Still, might be best to reduce intake of zinc if you develop minor headaches.

Just to clarify: take as much zinc as you want, unless it becomes uncomfortable. Also, try to take it along with iron, magnesium, copper, and molybdenum. If you don't have these other minerals, and/or don't eat food high in these, stop using your zinc.

Hope this helped.

Hi there,
While I am sure that echinacea, zinc, and Vit C will help to boost your immune system... echinacea and zinc will not help too much with a cold. Taking upwards of 5 to 10 grams of Vit C will work more effectively. Make SURE you are drinking PLENTY of water to keep your system 'flushed out.'
To me, I have found that a homeopathic remedy called "Cold and Flu Relief" ...from a brand called NATURE-BIO...is by far the BEST product I have ever used. If you can catch the cold coming on and take these...it will ward it off before it takes a real hold. It is also helpful if you already have a full blown cold...but it will take longer.
Good luck!!
PS: Eat very lightly, drink plenty of fluids...AND water, water, water!

I have worked in Vitamin Cottage and GNC stores for years... plus, my own peronsal experience.

Although 15 mg of zinc per day is all you need you can safely take 45 mg per day. The danger level is actually a bit higher than 45 mg per day.

In most cases you will only absorb about 20-40% of the elemental zinc in the supplement.