ACE2-Inhibitory Effects of Bromelain and Ficin in Colon Cancer Cells.

Bromelain and ficin are extracts from plants used for medical purposes. A study found that these extracts decreased the viability of colon cancer cells and induced apoptosis (cell death) in a concentration-dependent manner. The researchers also observed a decrease in the expression of ACE2 protein, which has potential implications for the treatment of COVID-19.

Pakbin B et al (2023).

Medicina (Kaunas).

DOI:

10.3390/medicina59020301

PubMed:

36837502

Molecular Screening of Bioactive Compounds of Garlic for Therapeutic Effects against COVID-19.

Researchers conducted a study to discover potential antiviral compounds from a natural plant source, screening 25 phytocompounds against the drug target 3CL protease by CB-dock. The best five compounds were Allicin, Diallyl Sulfide, Diallyl Disulfide, Diallyl Trisulfide, Ajoene, and Levamisole, which showed themselves as hit compounds. Further refining by screening filters represented Levamisole as a lead compound that may potentially treat SARS-CoV-2. However, more research must be done before determining their medicinal use.

Ashraf H et al (2023).

Biomedicines.

DOI:

10.3390/biomedicines11020643

PubMed:

36831179

Potential of Black Seeds (Nigella Sativa) in the Management of Long COVID or Post-acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) and Persistent COVID-19 Symptoms - An Insight.

Patients with Long COVID may experience symptoms for months after recovery from COVID-19. Treatment is primarily focused on managing symptoms and providing support to patients.

Pakkir Maideen NM et al (2023).

Infect Disord Drug Targets.

DOI:

10.2174/1871526523666230223112045

PubMed:

36825730

Effects of Active Compounds of Nigella sativa in COVID-19: A Narrative Review.

Nigella sativa (black cumin) has been found to be a safe and potentially effective natural remedy for COVID-19. Thymoquinone, the plant's main constituent, has been shown to target SARS-CoV-2. Studies have reported benefits for COVID-19 patients with no side effects, but have been limited by isolation policies and lack of funding. The evidence suggests that the chemical contents of Nigella sativa may be a safe and possible treatment for COVID-19 patients.

H U et al (2023).

Recent Adv Antiinfect Drug Discov.

DOI:

10.2174/2772434418666230222140805

PubMed:

36815641

Effect of andrographolide and deep eutectic solvent extracts of Andrographis paniculata on human coronavirus organ culture 43 (HCoV-OC43).

Andrographis paniculata has shown potential for treating coronaviruses, but no antiviral activity has been found against the human coronavirus HCoV-OC43 from the plant's extracts or andrographolide.

Komaikul J et al (2023).

Phytomedicine.

DOI:

10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154708

PubMed:

36805485

SARS-CoV-2 omicron variants are susceptible in vitro to Artemisia annua hot water extracts.

Artemisia annua L. has a long history of treating fever caused by infectious diseases. It is commonly used as a tea infusion to combat viruses.

Nair MS et al (2023).

J Ethnopharmacol.

DOI:

10.1016/j.jep.2023.116291

PubMed:

36804200

Preliminary outcome of Chelidonium majus (greater celandine) for COVID-19.

Gardin NE and Braga AJ (2023).

Phytother Res.

DOI:

10.1002/ptr.7776

PubMed:

36794596

Comparison study of Beninese and Chinese herbal medicines in treating COVID-19.

Researchers have observed a worldwide increase in the use of natural remedies, including Chinese herbal medicine and local plants, in response to COVID-19. This alternative approach to traditional medicine aims to strengthen immunity and prevent the spread of the disease. While the broader implications of these remedies and their effectiveness in treating COVID-19 remain unclear, these findings suggest the need for further exploration of alternative therapeutic solutions.

Houeze EA et al (2023).

J Ethnopharmacol.

DOI:

10.1016/j.jep.2023.116172

PubMed:

36773790