Expert say :Swine flu

MICHELLE OROSA, ABS-CBN News | 05/02/2009 5:29 PM

Two experts say there are a lot of cheap, available means to protect oneself from contracting the deadly H1N1 Influenza A strain, such as consuming coconut products, particularly virgin coconut oil (VCO).

Former Agriculture Secretary and President of the Federation of Free Farmers Rep. Leonardo Montemayor says virgin coconut oil has natural properties that boost the immune system to avoid catching the strain.

"There is no drug that has been proven to be effective against the virus. Our best cure is prevention. And VCO helps do that effectively," he says.

Virgin coconut oil has long been advocated by industry leaders, members of the academe, and loyal consumers as an immune-system boosting product that helps fights several viruses, including even HIV.

Dr. Tess Espino of the University of the Philippines-Los Baos says there is scienfitic basis for the claim, since VCO has lauric acid, a natural anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal compound.

"The natural derivative of lauric acid, monolaurin, actually breaks down the barriers surrounding the virus' cells, effectively destroying the virus," she explains.

Espino says the recommended dosage for VCO to be effective is 3 tablespoons a day.

But Montemayor adds there are also many other ways one can consume VCO or coconut, such as using the oil to cook, or eating directly from a coconut.

"Parang Pacquiao match lang yan, para matalo niya si Hatton, he has to train very well, strengthen himself and his body. Ganun din tayo, we have to strengthen our immune system against this very deadly virus," says Montemayor.

Both Montemayor and Espino clarify that VCO itself is not a cure, but that if the virus is contracted, then it would still be effective in minimizing the impact of the strain.