High demand for elderberry syrup amid coronavirus fears
People are stocking up on cleaning supplies nationwide, but it’s not just stores selling out. The coronavirus has been a boost for one Lowcountry business.
In addition to hand washing and wiping things down, a lot of people are also reaching for elderberry syrup to give the immune system a boost.
Charleston-based company RD Naturals is trying to keep up with the demand of its elderberry syrup. RD Naturals sells the syrup at 26 Charleston stores and seven pharmacies.
“We’re constantly trying to restock our stores, we are doing direct sales, we are doing shipping and it’s also on Amazon,” said owner and registered dietitian Sara Gail.
Gail said their Elderberry syrup is always popular during cold and flu season, but sales have drastically increased in the last four weeks.
“Elderberry is an antiviral. It prevents the virus from replicating in the body, so you want to take it early and often if you start feeling symptoms,” she said. “You can take it once a day for prevention, four times a day if you start feeling sick.”
Gail said they use elderberries that are grown and harvested in Europe. While she is expecting a large shipment soon to make the next batch, like so many other businesses, she’s keeping a close eye on the markets overseas.
