Herbal supplements are everywhere—and so are the bold claims that come with them. From tea tree oil to echinacea to zinc, they’re often marketed as natural cures for everything from acne to the common cold. But how much of it actually holds up?
I recently sat down with Dr. Jeremy Driscoll to dive into the research and reveal what the science says.
Tea Tree Oil: A Natural Cure for Everything?
The Claim:
Tea tree oil is marketed as a “miracle” ingredient with antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory powers. It’s supposed to treat everything from acne to athlete’s foot to minor wounds.
The Reality:
There is some evidence that compounds in tea tree oil have antimicrobial properties—but here’s the catch: over-the-counter formulations often contain such low concentrations that they’re pretty ineffective. And when used undiluted, it can irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions.
The Evidence:
A study in The Medical Journal of Australia compared tea tree oil to benzoyl peroxide for treating acne. Tea tree oil had minimal effects and didn’t come close to the results seen with benzoyl peroxide.
Tea tree oil might sound appealing, but its benefits are often overstated. If a patient is looking for something to treat acne or minor wounds, stick to traditional treatments.
Echinacea: Immune Booster or Placebo?
The Claim:
Echinacea is one of the most popular “natural immune boosters” out there, especially for preventing or shortening colds and respiratory infections.
The Reality:
Despite its popularity, the science doesn’t strongly support echinacea’s effectiveness for colds. Numerous studies and reviews have found little evidence that echinacea prevents or significantly reduces the duration of colds.
The Evidence:
A Cochrane Review looked at more than 20 studies on echinacea and found little support for its effectiveness in preventing or treating colds. Echinacea’s reputation is based more on tradition than science. If patients want to support their immune system, remind them that things like sleep, nutrition, and regular exercise have way more impact.
Zinc: The Cold Remedy with a Caveat
The Claim:
Zinc supplements and lozenges are often marketed as powerful cold remedies. Zinc is believed to prevent colds, boost immunity, and improve wound healing.
The Reality:
There’s actually some solid research showing that zinc can help if it’s taken within 24 hours of cold symptoms starting. But it’s no magic bullet. Plus, high doses can cause side effects like nausea or interfere with the absorption of other minerals.
The Evidence:
A 2015 meta-analysis in BMC Family Practice found that zinc taken early in a cold can shorten symptoms by a day or two in healthy adults. That’s… something! But it’s a modest benefit and definitely not a cure.
Zinc has its place—if patients take it early, it might help shorten a cold. Just make sure they understand it’s not a preventive remedy and that more isn’t always better.
Not All “Natural” Remedies Are Equal
Here’s the short version I tell my patients—and myself:
- Tea tree oil? Minimal benefits, often irritating. Stick to proven skin treatments.
- Echinacea? Tradition, not science. Save your money.
- Zinc? Sure, but only in the first 24 hours—and don’t overdo it.
“Natural” doesn’t always mean “better,” and we owe it to our patients to help them separate the hype from the helpful. If they have questions about a supplement, start with the science and go from there. And if you’re ever unsure? That’s what colleagues (and Cochrane Reviews) are for.
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