Pelargonium cold and flu remedy gains global spotlight

A South African plant with global impact – Pelargonium cold and flu remedy

Southern Africa harbours a botanical treasure that is finally receiving its scientific due. Meet Pelargonium sidoides – a South African plant proving its efficacy in combating colds and flu. Indigenous to the Eastern Cape, Free State, and Lesotho, Pelargonium showcases how traditional remedies can evolve into modern pharmaceutical triumphs, like Benylin All-In-One syrup.

Traditional remedy to modern evidence-based medicine

Long before clinical trials, Pelargonium sidoides was trusted by indigenous healers. Its journey toward mainstream medicine began in 1897 when a Zulu healer used its root to treat Major Charles Stevens, who was suffering from tuberculosis. His recovery spotlighted the plant’s therapeutic potential.

Fast forward to modern times, Kenvue recently concluded its Cough, Cold & Flu Forum roadshow, powered by Benylin and Sinutab. Hosted across Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town, this in-person and virtual event educated over 1 000 healthcare professionals (HCPs) on respiratory health and highlighted Pelargonium’s growing importance. These CPD-accredited events, which offered attendees eight CPD points and two Ethics points, featured prominent speakers, and included a showcase of compelling evidence of traditional remedies now gaining modern recognition through clinical research.

Local plant with global impact

Dr Joan van Wyngaard, a researcher with extensive studies on Pelargonium sidoides, shared insights into its properties. Published in the South African Journal of Botany, her findings confirmed its ability to combat respiratory infections through antiviral mechanisms.

Kenvue’s forthcoming Benylin All-In-One syrup formulated with Pelargonium aligns with the trend of natural remedies backed by science. As an immune booster, it positions Southern Africa on the map of global pharmacology. This product combines tradition and scientific precision, aimed at providing cold and flu relief.

“We’re proud to expand our product portfolio with the launch of Benylin All-In-One syrup, a new formulation containing Pelargonium, available since May. This historically revered African plant has shown effectiveness for both adults and children, and we’re excited to spotlight it,” says Edna Mohale, Head of Marketing: South and Sub-Saharan Africa. “The development represents our commitment to combining scientific rigor with local heritage to create solutions that resonate with South African consumers while meeting international standards of efficacy.”

Clinical evidence of Pelargonium’s efficacy

Clinical trials have proven Pelargonium’s ability to reduce cold and flu duration significantly.

• Lizogub Study (2007): Patients showed recovery two days faster. By day 10, 78.8% of those treated with Pelargonium were clinically cured compared to 31.4% in the placebo group.
• Gökçe Study (2021): Children saw symptom relief within three days, reinforcing its efficacy even in younger demographics.

Both studies confirm that Pelargonium is not only effective but also a faster solution for respiratory ailments, ensuring health and economic benefits.

Navigating the pseudoephedrine debate

Professor Ron Eccles, a recognised global authority in respiratory medicine, spoke about the pharmacological role and efficiency of pseudoephedrine, a nasal decongestant. His presentation provided evidence-based insights into its safety, addressing public health concerns and regulatory debates.

Empowering self-care in South Africa

Nicola Brink from the Self-Care Association of South Africa reinforced the importance of self-care.

“Equipping consumers with knowledge ensures manageable healthcare systems and enhances disease prevention,” she commented.

The introduction of Benylin All-In-One syrup echoes this sentiment, offering a solution rooted in local heritage yet supported by scientifically proven efficacy.