Published in “Nutrients” study shows synergistic virus-neutralizing activity of ElderCraft® and iota-carrageenan and supports the launch of
ElderCraft® DualDefense.
New in vitro research published in Nutrients adds important new evidence to the scientific platform behind ElderCraft®. In the study, standardized ElderCraft® European Black Elderberry extract and iota-carrageenan showed dose-dependent virus-neutralizing activity against SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A virus, and RSV. Most importantly, the combination delivered a pronounced synergistic antiviral effect.
A key highlight of the publication is the RSV finding. The paper provides the first in vitro experimental evidence of anti-RSV activity for standardized ElderCraft® Black Elduerberry extract. ElderCraft® alone showed strong anti-RSV activity, and the combination with iota-carrageenan further enhanced antiviral performance.
The study also strengthens the formulation story. Solutions prepared from matrix-standardized mono- and combi-lozenges reproduced the antiviral and synergistic effects observed with the pure ingredients. The authors further reported no detectable impact on cell viability under the tested conditions. For oral delivery innovation, this is especially relevant.
The discussion in the paper points to the feasibility of localized application in the upper respiratory tract, and the conclusion supports further development of ElderCraft® and iota-carrageenan as a topically accessible combination. Building on these findings, iprona has launched ElderCraft® DualDefense at Vitafoods Europe. The standardized powder blend combines ElderCraft® with iota-carrageenan for oral applications such as lozenges, oral sprays, chewables, and related oral delivery formats. iprona has filed a patent application for the use of ElderCraft against RSV.