IT would take at least six months for a clinical trial to prove or disprove claims on the potency of the animal deworming drug Ivermectin and while waiting for conclusive findings, Filipinos may consider taking the locally available virgin coconut oil, says a top Palace official.
Interviewed over the radio, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles finds it more logical and safe to take VCO, which has completed clinical trials manifesting its potential to reduce the symptoms of probable and suspect COVID-19 cases.
According to Nograles, VCO is a better alternative since it is readily available in the local market, adding that scientists have started looking into its use for moderate and severe COVID-19 cases.
Aside from VCO, Nograles also boasted of the efficacy of traditional herbs tawa-tawa and lagundi to treat patients with the novel coronavirus.
“These are supplements that are already readily available sa market,” said Nograles, adding that by considering locally developed, manufactured and distributed herbal supplements, Filipinos also get to help local coconut farmers.
“Ako, personally I feel at least tapos na iyong clinical trials, may FDA na ito. Nakakatulong pa tayo sa coconut farmers natin,” quipped Nograles who claims to be taking VCO at least once a day.