It may also prevent the reproduction of organisms that can cause disease - and mobilise the body's own immune cells against them.
For best results, it should be taken at the first sign of a symptom. Take one tablet three times a day, say manufacturers Medicherb, and for best results continue for 48 hours after symptoms subside, for up to ten days.
The saltpipe
Salt inhalation therapy is used in many central and Eastern European countries and independent clinical studies vouch for its effectiveness in treating asthma.
A porcelain pipe is filled with salt crystals from the Transylvanian Praid salt mine, a geological curiosity containing three billion tons of salt that has been mined since the second century.
Users place the pipe in the mouth, inhale, then breathe out through the nose. The moisture of the passing air absorbs the microscopic particles of salt which then penetrate the upper respiratory tract.
The sodium helps to flush away impurities either through coughing or blowing the nose. Call 08450 066 077.
Astragalus
Astragalus is a herbaceous perennial plant of the pea family, most commonly used to increase metabolism and energy, strengthen the immune system, boost stamina and promote healing.
Astragalus' immune-supporting properties have been valued by the Chinese for centuries.
Containing several key ingredients, including amino acids and trace minerals, studies have recently found it can lessen the severity and duration of a cold.
Honey has long been used in hot drinks and lozenges to sooth a cold. But this type of honey is made from nectar from the Manuka bush, a native plant of New Zealand, which is renowned for its unique antibacterial properties.
Manuka Honey's anti-bacterial activity is attributed to an enzyme called glucose oxidase, which produces hydrogen peroxide - an antiseptic.
Its high sugar concentration also helps to inhibit bacterial growth.
Research shows that Manuka Honey can stimulate the immune system and help the body to deal with infections by activating the growth of immune cells, while also fighting the bacteria streptococcus pyogenes that causes sore throats.
So strong is its anti-bacterial component that it has been given its own classification, the unique manuka factor (UMF).
Strengths range from UMF5, which is believed to be equivalent to a 5 per cent solution of a standard antiseptic, to UMF20, which is equivalent to a 20 per cent solution of antiseptic.
Different strengths are recommended for treating different conditions.
Bio-strath
This Swiss herbal yeast formula may help increase the body's immune system defence mechanisms and aid recovery when fighting a cold. The sweet-tasting honey, malt and orange-flavoured mixture aims to improve immune response by increasing white blood-cell count, which functions as the body's defence system.
These cells are then transported via the blood to infection sites in the body. For best results, take one 5ml teaspoon of Bio-Strath three times a day before meals.
Bio-Strath also contains herbal extracts including Angelica, Balm, Basil, Camomile, Liquorice and Sage.
Sterimar nasal spray
This aerosol nasal spray delivers a micro fine jet of sterile isotonic seawater - this means it contains the same amount of salt as our body's cells - which gently cleans nasal passages.
The sea water in the spray contains trace elements known for their antiseptic, antiinflammatory and anti-allergy properties.
By keeping the nasal passages clean, the spray may offer increased protection from developing a common cold.
Available from Boots and other chemists.
Immunance
A dietary supplement of 23 nutrients for the immune system, Immunace is designed to help maintain resistance to infection and so reduce the chances of catching the cold virus.
It is thought to be so powerful that a study involving Immunace and HIV-infected individuals revealed the supplement reduced the mortality rate by half.
The Immunace formulation includes antioxidants such as vitamins E and C as well as five natural source carotenoids - substances which protect against harmful molecules called free radicals.
These are thought to help viruses become more active in the body.
Immunace also contains certain amino acids and trace minerals such as selenium and zinc, which also help fight the free radicals that make us susceptible to colds.
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