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

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24146345/