See a doctor if: Slow-healing wounds, repeated infections, noticeable hair loss, or a lasting loss of taste or smell - see a doctor, as these can signal deficiency or another condition.
Kitchen remedies
Include zinc foods most days: pumpkin and sesame seeds, cashews and other nuts, chana and other pulses, whole grains, curd and (for non-vegetarians) eggs. Soaking and sprouting pulses and grains helps the body absorb their zinc better.
Featured herbs
How to prepare
Cautions
Do NOT take high-dose zinc supplements on your own for long periods - too much zinc blocks copper absorption and can cause other problems. Get nutrients from food first, and use supplements only on advice.
Related remedies
Iron & Blood Building (dietary, traditional)Vitamin B12 Support for Vegetarians (dietary, adjunct)Vitamin D / Sunshine Deficiency Support (bone, muscle & mood nutrition)Everyday Protein Nutrition for Vegetarians (supportive)Folate / Folic-Acid-Rich Eating (preconception & general, supportive)Magnesium-Rich Nutrition for Muscles, Nerves & Sleep (supportive)Omega-3 / Good-Fats Nutrition for Heart & Brain (supportive)Healthy Weight Gain for the Underweight (supportive)
When to see a doctor. Home remedies are for minor, self-limiting complaints in adults. They are not a substitute for medical care, and herbs can interact with medicines. Not for children under the ages stated, in pregnancy, or with chronic conditions without a doctor's advice.
