Article: Antiviral activity of Engystol and Gripp-Heel

Context

My wife recently returned from a trip to South America, and brought with her a box of over-the-counter cold remedy called Engystol - marketed towards boosting immune function and fighting flu-like infections.

I admit ignorance on this interesting formulation - so I started reading.

First, what is Engystol made of?

• Vincetoxicum hirundinaria

• Sulfur

So, What is Vincetoxium hirundinaria?

The name of this plant comes from Latin. Vincetoxicum means 'conqueror of poison,' and hirundinaria means 'swallow.' This plant is colloquially known as swallow-wort.

The history is far more interesting, because this plant has been used as an antidote to snake venom...whilst simultaneously alleged to be venomous itself.