Zinc Lozenges

  • Stock #1596-8 (96 tablets)
This information is provided by YourRoadLessTraveled.com
 
Zinc Lozenges are pleasant-tasting throat lozenges for easing a dry or sore throat. In addition, each Zinc Lozenge contains several immune-boosting nutrients which help strengthen the body’s defenses against glandular or respiratory infection, including the common cold. Each Zinc Lozenge provides 5mg of zinc and 95mg of vitamin C to increase immunity and maintain good health.

Ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate are two sources of vitamin C. According to a review published in the British Journal of Nutrition, more than 20 double-blind studies confirm that vitamin C supplementation decreases the intensity and duration of common colds. Vitamin C increases the action of white blood cells (leukocytes) which fight infection, thus strengthening immune function. Many studies show taking 2 to 6 grams of vitamin C daily alleviates symptoms of the common cold—taking 500-1,000mg every 1 to 2 hours during a cold is recommended to ensure tissue saturation of vitamin C and to provide optimal effects. Furthermore, vitamin C supplementation reduces the sensitivity of the lungs during a cold, thus decreasing coughing and wheezing.

Echinacea root is considered one of the best-known and safest immune strengtheners available today. Echinacea has been shown to fight bronchitis, colds, flu, infection, strep throat, and other immune and respiratory problems. Taking echinacea at the first sign of cold or flu can arrest the problem and shorten the duration of symptoms. Echinacea is also a blood and lymph cleanser and has been shown to be quite effective against Streptococcus—a genus of bacteria which can cause gastrointestinal, respiratory and urinary tract infections—as well as chronic infections, laryngitis, sinusitis, swollen glands, and tonsillitis. Incidentally, echinacea root was used by the Kiowa Indians of Northeastern Indiana for sore throats.

Eucalyptus oil provides anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Research also indicates possible antiviral activity. Eucalyptus oil is well-known for its effectiveness in helping to relieve cold symptoms, including coughs, nasal congestion, and minor throat irritation.

Licorice root has long been used by Chinese and European herbalists to remedy sore throats, as well as coughs and bronchial congestion. Licorice contains a rich amount of mucilage which helps to coat and soothe irritated mucous membranes, while the active constituent—glycyrrhizin—cools inflammation and reduces symptoms associated with allergies. Such healing qualities make licorice especially useful for treating hoarseness and laryngitis. Licorice also stimulates immune system function against viral infections.

Menthol—a volatile oil derived from peppermint—relaxes muscle spasms associated with chronic coughing, relieves nasal congestion, and acts as a mild analgesic (pain-reliever).

Slippery elm bark is especially beneficial for easing a sore throat. The cooling and soothing action of the herb’s mucilage helps moisten inflamed tissues in the throat. Slippery elm was commonly used by the Ojibwa Indians who made a tea from the inner bark to ease both sore throat pain and coughs.

Zinc acetate —an important trace mineral, zinc is necessary for healthy immune function, including T-cell and natural killer cell activation and antibody production. Zinc also demonstrates antiviral activity against certain viruses associated with the common cold. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine showed zinc lozenges reduced the duration of cold symptoms by nearly 50% in comparison with those taking a placebo. Participants\’ colds were significantly shorter, resulting in less coughing, hoarseness, nasal congestion and drainage, and fewer days of headaches and sore throats. Further research seems to indicate that zinc may interfere with viral receptor sites, thus inhibiting replication and curtailing infection.

NSP recommends taking one lozenge every hour, as needed; however, do not exceed more than 6 lozenges in any 24-hour period.

NSP’s Zinc Lozenges also contain fructose (a natural sweetener), along with natural orange and peach flavors and spearmint oil.

This information is provided by YourRoadLessTraveled.com
References:

Chevallier, A. The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. NY, NY: Dorling Kindersley Inc., 1996.

Hemila, H. “Vitamin C and the Common Cold.” British Journal of Nutrition; 1992, 67: 3-16.

Janson, M.D., Michael. “Zinc: Common Cold Killer.” Health Counselor; 1997, Vol. 9, No. 2.

Judge, G. “Coming in From the Cold.” American Health; 1998, Vol. 17, No. 1, 66-70.

Kemper MD, K.J. The Holistic Pediatrician. NY, NY: HarperPerennial, 1996.

Mayell, M. “25 Power Herbs.” Natural Health; 1997, Vol. 27, No. 5, 167-168.

—. “Do-It-Yourself Natural Pharmacy.” Natural Health; 1997, Vol. 27, No. 2, 126-128.

Mossad, S.B. “Zinc gluconate lozenges for treating the common cold.” Annals of Internal Medicine; 1996, 125 (2), 81-88.

Mowrey, D. The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine. New Canaan, CT: Keats Publishing Inc., 1986.

Murray, M. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing, 1996.

Novick, S.G., et al. “How does zinc modify the common cold?” Medical Hypotheses; 1996, Vol. 46, No. 3, 295-302.

Paukune-Martin, W. “Native American Herbs.” Energy Times; 1997, Vol. 7, No. 8, 61-66.

Weiner, M. and Weiner, J. Herbs That Heal: Prescription For Herbal Healing. Mill Valley, CA: Quantum Books, 1994.

Worwood, V.A. The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy. San Rafael, CA: New World Library, 1991.