The story

Several associations in the alternative medicine industry have joined forces to warn against non-conventional remedies that claim to cure or prevent swine flu.

The warning comes as a number of Internet sites are promoting various products including dietary supplements and black elderberries as possible cures for swine flu.

Only two drugs have been approved to treat and prevent influenza - Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and Relenza (zanamivir), the Unites States Food and Drug Agency said on its Web site.

The industry coalition, which includes the Natural Products Association and the American Herbal Products Association, warned in a statement: "We are unaware of any scientific data supporting the use of dietary supplements to treat swine flu."

The warnings were also directed at the sellers of dietary supplements and natural remedies. The industry told marketers and retailers not to promote any dietary supplement as a cure or treatment for swine flu. Read full article »