DOST exec: Benefits of virgin coconut oil, melatonin vs. COVID-19 still being studied

The benefits of virgin coconut oil (VCO) and melatonin against COVID-19 are not yet guaranteed as studies are still ongoing, an official from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said Thursday.

Executive director Jaime Montoya of the DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development reminded the public that VCO and melatonin are not yet considered COVID-19 treatments, although they have been approved by regulators.

He explained that VCO has only been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a food supplement or functional food, while melatonin is often used for sleep inducement or as a vitamin.

“Para inumin natin ‘yan at sabihin natin na ito ay iniinom ko para sa COVID-19, wala pa po tayong sapat na ebidensya pa sa ngayon para sabihin ‘yan. Pwede nang inumin ‘yan siguro para mapalakas ang sarili nila, approved na kasi ng FDA,” he said in an online forum.

(For us to drink these and say that we’re doing it against COVID-19, we don’t have enough evidence to say that. These can be taken to strengthen the body since they have been approved by the FDA.)

Last year, the DOST said VCO showed promise against COVID-19 in a study on the antiviral effects of coconut oil compounds. 

Montoya stressed, however, that studies on both VCO and melatonin against COVID-19 are still ongoing.

The DOST official also advised the public to consult with a health professional before taking medications since “the more drugs we take, the more medicines we take, the possibility of interaction is there.” — RSJ, GMA News