Aromatic ointments for the common cold: what does the science say?

Smith, A. M.; Matthews, Oliver

doi:10.7573/dic.2022-5-6

Cited by 6 publications

(8 citation statements)

References 63 publications

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“…However, whilst some studies may show limited objective benefit of inhaled aromatic ointments containing menthol for the common cold, the subjective benefits provided to patients have demonstrated improved sleep quality and accelerated recovery. 59 Furthermore, the use of these traditional herbal ingredients is supported by monographs from expert bodies such as WHO.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Treatment of the common cold with herbs used in Ayurveda and Jamu: monograph review and the science of ginger, liquorice, turmeric and peppermint

Wardani,

Schellack,

Govender

et al. 2023

DIC

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Background The common cold is typically managed with decongestants, antihistamines, antitussives and antipyretics. In addition to these established medications, herbal ingredients have been used over centuries to help treat common cold symptoms. The Ayurveda and Jamu systems of medicine, originating from India and Indonesia, respectively, have leveraged herbal therapies to treat many illnesses. Method An expert roundtable discussion comprising specialists in Ayurveda, Jamu, pharmacology and surgery along with a literature review was conducted to evaluate the use of four herbs – ginger, liquorice, turmeric and peppermint – for common cold symptom management in Ayurvedic texts, Jamu publications and monographs from the World Health Organization, Health Canada and various European guidelines. Discussion Due to a lack of antivirals, common cold management revolves around maintaining personal hygiene and symptom management. Herbal medicines have been an integral part of many cultures worldwide. Despite its growing acceptance, there is a perception that healthcare providers lack interest and may prevent patients from discussing the use of herbal medicines. Limited education and training may also widen the communication gap between patients and healthcare providers, hindering effective management. Conclusion Evaluation of scientific evidence and the standing in international monographs can offer perspectives on the use of herbal medicines for common cold management.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Treatment of the common cold with herbs used in Ayurveda and Jamu: monograph review and the science of ginger, liquorice, turmeric and peppermint

Wardani,

Schellack,

Govender

et al. 2023

DIC

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“…In addition, a recent study was able to determine that a formula containing hyaluronic acids, Eucalyptus oil, copper, and manganese salts is effective for safe nasal irrigation and therefore for alleviating symptoms associated with the common cold such as nasal congestion [ 66 ]. Additionally, the Eucalyptus plant is often used as a compound in an ointment containing camphor, menthol, and Eucalyptus oils for topical application, which lessens the symptoms of colds [ 67 , 68 ]. A meta-analysis published in 2022 was able to synthesize the clinical trials that demonstrate the effectiveness of Eucalyptus in relieving cough.…”

Section: Most Commonly Used Medicinal Plants For the Treatment Of The...mentioning

confidence: 99%

Natural Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Common Cold and Viral Respiratory Infections

et al. 2023

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The common cold is generally considered a usually harmless infectious disease of the upper respiratory pathway, with mostly mild symptoms. However, it should not be overlooked, as a severe cold can lead to serious complications, resulting in hospitalization or death in vulnerable patients. The treatment of the common cold remains purely symptomatic. Analgesics as well as oral antihistamines or decongestants may be advised to relieve fever, and local treatments can clear the airways and relieve nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, or sneezing. Certain medicinal plant specialties can be used as therapy or as complementary self-treatment. Recent scientific advances discussed in more detail in this review have demonstrated the plant’s efficiency in the treatment of the common cold. This review presents an overview of plants used worldwide in the treatment of cold diseases.

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“…Clinical symptoms of the common cold, flu and other MUR-TIs are caused by an immune response to the viruses 7,8,35,36 (Figure 1). Typically, the onset of symptoms is staggered (Figure 2).…”

Section: Pathophysiology and Current Management Of Murtismentioning

confidence: 99%

The treatment of mild upper respiratory tract infections – a position paper with recommendations for best practice

Smith¹,

Kardos²,

Pfaar³

et al. 2023

DIC

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Following the waning severity of COVID-19 due to vaccination and the development of immunity, the current variants of SARS-CoV-2 often lead to mild upper respiratory tract infections (MURTIs), suggesting it is an appropriate time to review the pathogenesis and treatment of such illnesses. The present article reviews the diverse causes of MURTIs and the mechanisms leading to symptomatic illness. Different symptoms of MURTIs develop in a staggered manner and require targeted symptomatic treatment. A wide variety of remedies for home treatment is available, including over-the-counter drugs and plant-derived substances. Recent pharmacological research has increased the understanding of molecular effects, and clinical studies have shown the efficacy of certain herbal remedies. However, the use of subjective endpoints in these clinical studies may suggest limited validity of the results. In this position paper, the importance of patient-centric outcomes, including a subjective perception of improved well-being, is emphasized. A best practice approach for the management of MURTIs, in which pharmacists and physicians create an improved multi-professional healthcare setting and provide healthcare education to patients, is proposed. Pharmacists act as first-line consultants and provide patients with remedies, considering the individual patient's preferences towards chemical or plant-derived drugs and providing advice for self-monitoring. Physicians act as second-line consultants if symptoms worsen and subsequently initiate appropriate therapies. In conclusion, general awareness of MURTIs should be increased amongst medical professionals and patients, thus improving their management.

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Aromatic ointments for the common cold: what does the science say?

Cited by 6 publications

References 63 publications

Treatment of the common cold with herbs used in Ayurveda and Jamu: monograph review and the science of ginger, liquorice, turmeric and peppermint

Treatment of the common cold with herbs used in Ayurveda and Jamu: monograph review and the science of ginger, liquorice, turmeric and peppermint

Natural Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Common Cold and Viral Respiratory Infections

The treatment of mild upper respiratory tract infections – a position paper with recommendations for best practice

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