Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lauric acid is a medium-chain fatty acid found abundantly in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Its use for supporting or treating colds is primarily based on its antiviral properties demonstrated in laboratory settings. Lauric acid and its derivative, monolaurin, have been shown in vitro to disrupt lipid-coated viruses by disintegrating their lipid membranes, thereby inactivating them. Notably, some common cold viruses, such as human coronaviruses and influenza viruses, possess lipid envelopes, suggesting a plausible mechanism for lauric acid’s antiviral activity.

However, while these findings are promising, most of the evidence comes from in vitro (test-tube) studies or animal studies. There is a lack of robust human clinical trials confirming that lauric acid supplementation can prevent or treat colds in real-world settings. A few preliminary reports and indirect evidence suggest that populations with high coconut oil intake may have reduced viral illness rates, but such observations are confounded by numerous other dietary and lifestyle factors.

Overall, the evidence supporting lauric acid’s use against the common cold is limited and preliminary. While there is a scientific rationale and some laboratory evidence for its antiviral effects, the direct translation to clinical efficacy in humans remains unproven. Therefore, the current evidence level is rated as 2 out of 5, reflecting early-stage scientific support but insufficient clinical validation.

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