Zicam Replacement- try sage and more!

White Sage

In June of this year Zicam was taken off the market because of possible side effects.  Anosmia- long-lasting or even permanent loss of smell has been reported.   Zicam was available as a nasal gel and a over the counter swab.

Here are some possible alternative methods to combat the aggravating symptoms associated with nasal irritations or colds.  Hope you can use a few of these suggestions!

from http://www.examiner.com/ and http://www.washingtonpost.com:

• The herb sage is good for stuffed noses, coughs, and sore throats. Put into water and gargle with it. A sage gives powerful antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal benefits.

• Myrrh is an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory great for chronic sore throats. Another use for Myrrh is it helps to cure gum disease.

• Keep zinc lozenges on hand along with taking vitamin c. This will help the cold stay at bay.

• Dab small amount of mentholated salve under the nose, such as Vick’s. This will open the breathing passages rather quickly.

• Keep hydrated with water and hot teas. Green tea is a great way to sooth the throat and boosts the immune system. Green tea is known to have many antioxidants.

• Get proper rest; this is not the time to cheat the body of sleep. This is the time in which to build the immune system up being that it is working to fight off a cold and flu.

• Steaming is good for the soothing the throat as well as clearing the sinus. If you belong to a health club use the steam room, but otherwise take a hot shower.

• Eat chicken soup however you prefer be either chicken noodle or just the broth. This has been used for many years, and no one can explain why it works, but it does.