This study also showed that xylometazoline hydrochloride 0.1% significantly improved the senses of ‘smell’ and ‘taste’ from day 1. As the olfactory and gustatory systems are central to the process of food consumption, 38 these results suggest that xylometazoline hydrochloride 0.1% usage may have made it easier for participants to enjoy food and ensure necessary nutritional uptake during the early stages of the common cold.