Zinc is commonly used to support the sinuses and overall respiratory health, primarily due to its role in immune function. Scientific studies have demonstrated that zinc can modestly reduce the duration and severity of the common cold, which often presents with sinus-related symptoms such as congestion and nasal discharge. The proposed mechanisms include zinc’s ability to inhibit the replication of rhinoviruses (the most frequent cause of colds) and to stabilize cell membranes, potentially reducing inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses.

Clinical trials and meta-analyses, such as the 2013 Cochrane review, indicate that when zinc is administered within 24 hours of the onset of cold symptoms, it can decrease the duration of symptoms in otherwise healthy individuals. However, the effect on sinus-specific conditions like sinusitis is less clearly established; most research focuses on upper respiratory infections more broadly.

There is insufficient evidence to support zinc as a treatment for chronic or bacterial sinusitis. Additionally, intranasal zinc preparations have been linked to the risk of anosmia (loss of smell) and are not recommended. Oral zinc lozenges or supplements, when used at appropriate doses and for short durations, are considered safe for most people and may offer modest benefit in supporting sinus health during acute viral infections.