Health 'No evidence' oleandrin can cure COVID-19, as experts warn that it can be toxic Abby Haglage August 18, 2020, 10:03 AM PDT Experts unpack the dangerous, toxic effects associated with oleandrin, an extract of oleander that President Trump reportedly believes may help with COVID-19. (Photo by Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images) It’s no surprise that in the midst of a raging global pandemic, which has infected more than 5.4 million people in the U.S. , any mention of a potential way to stop COVID-19 gets attention. But as studies of Americans drinking bleach have made plain, endorsements of products that have not been tested for human consumption can prove extremely dangerous. The latest snake-oil cure this week involves oleandrin, an extract from the North African and Eastern Mediterranean shrub Nerium oleander, which President Trump reportedly suggested that the Food and Drug Administration approve in July. Neither the Tr