We’ve seen how garlic combats the common cold along with other illnesses, but what about other home remedies such as chicken soup and zinc lozenges ─ can they treat the more than 200 viruses that can cause a cold? According to the BBC, remedies effective against infections work by supporting and boosting the immune system so it can effectively fight invaders.

Scientists know that both lifestyle habits and diet affect the immune system so very often cold-busting remedies include healthy foods and supplements to correct potential deficiencies that may weaken immune response. Here’s what science says about common home remedies:

• Supplements. If you eat a balanced diet, taking supplements won’t help the immune system prevent colds. However, studies have found that taking a good multivitamin that contains vitamins A, D, E, B6, B12, folic acid, zinc, selenium, copper and iron reduces the frequency and duration of cold symptoms.

• Vitamin C. A 2023 study found evidence that vitamin C supplements significantly decrease the severity of symptoms of the common cold, including runny nose, cough and sore throat by around 15%. Since there is little risk in taking Vitamin C, it is worth a try, say experts.

• Zinc.  During the initial stages of the coronavirus pandemic, it was as difficult to obtain zinc supplements as toilet paper. Word of mouth quickly spread that this critical mineral could be instrumental in reducing the risk and severity of COVID-19. “The body requires zinc to make proteins and DNA, the genetic material in every cell,” says David Friedman, a clinical nutritionist. He adds that zinc also helps protect the body against invading bacteria and viruses. One study found that 80 milligrams daily of zinc acetate lozenges shortened the duration of runny and blocked noses due to a cold by a third, and led to 22% less sneezing and half as much coughing, according to the BBC.

• Chicken soup. Although old-fashioned chicken soup is a controversial cold-fighter based more on myth than science, experts at the McGill Office for Science and Society say that modern research has actually shown that chicken soup, more than other hot liquids, increases mucous flow and helps the body get rid of the cold virus. Chicken is rich in an amino acid called cysteine that helps loosen secretions. This effect is increased by adding spices, such as pepper and chopped garlic, to the broth.