Zinc Nasal Sprays May Lead to Loss of Smell

Using zinc nasal sprays to soothe cold symptoms may dull your sense of smell, a new study shows.

The study included 25 patients, all of whom had been treated at a nasal dysfunction clinic. The patients reported experiencing a burning sensation immediately after using zinc nasal sprays, followed by a loss of sense of smell within minutes to hours of using the sprays. According to the study's authors, the only "probable explanation for the smell loss is chemical injury due to the use of intranasal zinc." What's more, the study's authors note, previous research suggests that zinc nasal sprays may not be effective when it comes to preventing or treating colds.

In past studies, several other natural remedies have been found to help reduce the duration and/or severity of the common cold. These remedies include herbs like echinacea and astragalus, as well as nutrients like vitamin C.