[stanz]

It also doesn't hurt to take zinc on a regular basis along with the echinacea and goldenseal. They are a powerful preventive measure.

[Atlas Sneezed]

Zinc (in certain formulations) has been proven effective in controlled studies to prevent or shorten colds. I suggest the Cold-Eze lozenges at the first sign of a tickle.

But remember, you need a controlled-double blind study. After all, you or I may percieve good results, but they may be due to changing habits that go along with other measures, like washing hands more regularly.