Saponin-rich plants are eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic surfactants and medications. Studies show high potential for sustainable, ethical, and economical use in commercial products, benefiting human health and the environment.
Researchers found that Codonopsis lanceolata polysaccharide improved weight gain, liver health, metabolic abnormalities, mammary gland development, and lactation performance in mice with hypogalactia induced by a high-fat diet. This suggests a potential use of traditional Chinese medicine for treating hypogalactia.
Researchers conducted computational screening of phytoconstituents from a specific plant to identify potential antiviral hit candidates against 3CLpro, a target for COVID-19 treatment. Stigmasterol showed the highest binding affinity and exhibited stable interactions. This study suggests as a potential drug candidate for further development against the virus.
Scientists evaluated Codonopsis lanceolata as a potential treatment for COVID-19 and found that the plant extract and its active compound, lancemaside A (LA), effectively blocked SARS-CoV-2 infection by altering membrane cholesterol and blocking membrane fusion between the virus and host cells. LA also impeded the entry pathways of several SARS-CoV-2 variants, including Omicron. Researchers suggest that LA has broad-spectrum anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity and may serve as a potential therapeutic option.