I posted this as a reply in another thread but on the chance it might help someone, I thought I'd post it again as a separate post.
I can't take antihistamines for my terrible allergies and I found this stuff called Umcka, which works amazingly well and is also supposed to shorten colds, flu and sore throats. It's an homeopathic herbal remedy using a plant called umckaloabo. I really didn't think of the connection between covid, flu and the cold until now. I wonder if this might be another cheap and safe alternative?
I have no side effects from it, including blood pressure, which is why I can't take most antihistamines. There's some research on its effectiveness against colds and flu. I don't know about that, I haven't had either for years, but it certainly helps with the sinus and respiratory effects I have from allergies. I have taken prescription allergy meds for years and they can't touch Umcka with a 10 foot pole.
"Pelargonium sidoides, commonly known as the African geranium, is native to South Africa. It's a member of the geranium family, and its roots have traditionally been used to help relieve respiratory ailments, including the common cold."
That's from the website of the company that makes Umcka, I prefer the drops but it also comes in cough syrup, chewable tablets, etc.
https://www.naturesway.com/products/umcka-coldcare-alcohol-free-drops
You can also find other versions on Amazon. Just search for umckaloabo
Here's some research info on it:
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/pelargonium-sidoides
I've had it, definitely a little more than the cold I get generally every year or so lol.
Maybe like the flu tho.
I had it also, most bizarre thing was the loss of taste. Not like flu symptom lots of taste but literally could only taste salt or a slight sweetness of food. 4 days laying around the house. Horse paste does work though. Like eating petroleum jelly.
Ditto. Had to put chilli powder in my food for a week. But I haven't had a cold or flu since then (Jan 2020). Probably because of the mask. Oh, wait - I don't wear a mask!