ZINC

Hastens Healing

The human need for zinc is small, but its role in growth and well-being is enormous, starting even before birth. Zinc is a bluish-white, metallic element. It is present in the body mostly in combination with other constituents of the body.

Functions in the Body

Zinc is needed for a healthy skin, hair and nails, to muscle, nerve and brain functions, proper healing of wounds, successful pregnancies, and male virility. It plays a vital role in guarding against disease and infection. It is needed to transport vitamin A to the retina. Almost all the enzymes in the body require zinc for their functioning. 

Sources

Cereals, nuts and oilseeds are important source of zinc. Vegetables and fruits contain only a small quantity of zinc.

Deficiency Symptoms

Zinc deficiency in the diet has been reported to be the cause of anaemia, retardation in growth, and delayed genital maturation.

Healing and Therapeutic Properties

Oral doses of zinc sulphate may accelerate the healing of chronic skin ulcers and wounds. 

Acne. Zinc seems to offer new promise of help for acne patients. It has shown dramatic results in some cases. 

Eczema. Zinc has also been found beneficial in the treatment of eczema. Many people with the skin problem have tried and benefited from zinc supplements.

Prostate Disorders. Administration of zinc has been found to be helpful in cases of prostate enlargement. About 30 mg of this mineral should be taken daily in the treatment of these disorders.

Plasters/ Bandages. Zinc oxide in bandages and plaster casts gives an added edge to the healing process.

Common Cold. Zinc can relieve the symptoms of the common cold. Zinc lozenges have been shown to reduce the duration of common cold by 42 percent.

Creams / Ointments. Due to it’s anti-bacterial and non-allergenic properties, Zinc is used in many of finest cosmetic products while Zinc oxide is a key ingredient in medicated creams and lotions used in the treatment of wounds, skin disorders and numerous infections.

Precautions: Excessive intake of zinc can cause loss of iron and copper in the body. Toxicity can result from inhalation of zinc fumes by welders. Inhalation of high concentrations of zinc oxide fumes leads to an acute illness called metal fume fever or brass chills, characterised by fever, chills, excessive salivation, headaches, and a cough.