Evidence supporting the use of: Flavonoid (mixture)
For the health condition: Colds (antiviral)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Flavonoids are a diverse group of plant compounds found in fruits, vegetables, teas, and other foods. Their use to support or treat colds, particularly for their antiviral effects, is supported by some scientific evidence, though the strength of this evidence is modest. Several in vitro (test tube) and animal studies have demonstrated that certain flavonoids, such as quercetin and catechins, can inhibit the replication of common cold viruses, including rhinoviruses and influenza viruses. Additionally, flavonoids are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help modulate immune response and reduce symptoms associated with viral infections.
A handful of small human clinical trials and observational studies have explored the effects of flavonoid supplementation on respiratory tract infections. Some studies suggest that regular intake of flavonoid-rich extracts can reduce the incidence, duration, or severity of upper respiratory tract infections, though the benefits are generally modest and may vary depending on the specific flavonoid and formulation used. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and similar regulatory bodies have not endorsed flavonoid mixtures as a treatment or preventive for colds, citing a need for more robust and consistent clinical data.
In summary, while there is some scientific basis for the use of flavonoid mixtures in supporting the immune system and potentially reducing the severity or frequency of colds, the overall evidence remains limited. More large-scale, well-designed human trials are needed to confirm efficacy and determine optimal dosages.
Other ingredients used for Colds (antiviral)
allspicealoe vera
anthocyanins
arabinogalactan
waterhyssop
basil
berry flavor
beta-pinene
bilberry
bisabolol
black cumin
black currant
black garlic
blueberry
Indian frankincense
cat's claw
catechins
cinnamon
citrus bioflavonoids
citrus oil
clove
turmeric
echinacea purpurea
elderberry
epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)
forsythia
garlic bulb
ginger
green tea
honeysuckle
knotweed
lactoferrin
lactoperoxidase
lauric acid
lemon
licorice root
luteolin
mastic gum
monolaurin
oregano
perilla
phellodendron amurense
phenolic acids
pineapple
pomegranate
quercetin
resveratrol
rhizome
rosemary
schizonepeta
shiitake mushroom
spirulina
thyme
vitamin C
vitamin D
wasabia japonica
zinc
xanthium (cockleburs)
hyssop
papaya
mugwort
neem tree
nut grass
alpinia galangal
commiphora
buckthorn
pau d'arco
morus
lemongrass
chrysanthemum
ganoderma
morinda
oriental arborvitae
zanthoxylum
fulvic acid
goji berry
indigo leaves
soursop
Ash
Agastache
Autumn elaeagnus
Alpha-terpineol
Apigenin
Allicin
Anamu
AHCC
Andrographolide
Amentoflavone
Asam gelugor
Acacetin
Aureobasidium pullulans
Andrographis
Asteracea
Allyl Sulfide
allyl isothiocyanate
Alliin
Allium tuberosum
Atractylone
Bee Propolis
Black Seed
Baikal Skullcap
Baphicacanthus cusia
Bidens pilosa
Broussonetia
Balsam
Bishop's Weed
Black galingale
Bitter Grass
Bee hive
Basidiomycota
berry
Bee products
Black Nightshade
Bombax
Baicalin
Bassia scoparia
Borneol
Caffeic Acid
Camellia sinensis
Coconut
Curry leaf
Chinese Mountain Ant
Clerodendrum trichotomum
Coriolus mushroom
Carrageenan
Carvacrol
Capillary Artemisia
Citron
Citrus
Chinese Raisintree
Cowherb
Cistus
Common madia
Cinnamaldehyde
Costus
Celosia
Chondrus
Deoxyandrographolides
David's Milkberry
European Elder
Echinacea
Elder
Essential Oil Blend
Flavonoids
Flavonones
Goldthread
Garlic
Galangal
Sandalwood
Other health conditions supported by Flavonoid (mixture)
Alzheimer's DiseaseAntibiotics (alternatives to)
Anxiety
Arthritis
Asthma
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cataracts
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (general)
Congestion (bronchial)
Depression
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dizziness
Eczema
Eye Problems
Eyesight (poor)