Phytochemicals: an immune booster against the pathogens

Phytochemicals are chemical compounds produced by plants. Actually, it is produced by primary and secondary metabolism. Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, etc., are rich with phytochemicals and impart aroma, colors, and flavors. There are many phytochemicals like polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, phytoestrogens, phytosterols, etc. They act as antioxidants against diseases related to lungs, urinal, stomach, and heart and can be used as nutraceuticals to control various metabolic disorders. Medicinal plants have been regarded as beneficial for many centuries. In India, Himalayas and Western Ghat regions are diverse in such plants. It has many beneficial effects on human health and boosts up immunity. Tens of thousands of phytochemicals have been identified, and many more are yet to be discovered. Synthetic medicine is known to cause many side effects on human health, and having such natural medicinal plants in diet is believed to be beneficial without side effects. They may increase immunity to fight against today's diseases like SARS, MERS, and Coronavirus (CoV) infections. The phytotherapy or the phytomedicines are effective immunity boosters and have the potential to eliminate bacterial as well as viral infections. Phytochemicals like phenolic compounds, vegetables, and fruits containing such compounds in the human diet may be effective against coronaviruses and people cure due to having it in their diet too. Still more research and identification of such compounds are required to get more information regarding its benefits. The phytotherapy-based research and developing phytotherapic medicines could cure many more chronic as well as acute diseases. This chapter deals with comprehensive information on phytochemicals and its importance. © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cinchona Exhibits Candidates as a Complementary Antiviral Activity for Sars-Cov-2: A Narrative Review

Aim and Objective: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) that causes severe acute respiratory syndrome, is the world's most serious health issue. COVID-19 is currently without a precise and successful antiviral treatment. Phytochemicals provide a ray of hope for public well-being amid the pandemic, and much study is being done on them. Material(s) and Method(s): Cinchona bark contains phytochemicals that have been used as antiviral agents against various viruses because they can suppress various viruses via various mechanisms of direct inhibition at the viral entry point and replication stages via immunomodulation potentials. Cinchona bark and its components have also been shown to have promising antiviral properties against SARS-CoV-2, according to recent data. This narrative analysis summarizes cinchona phytochemical agents, their mechanisms of action, and possible antiviral behaviours against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Results and Discussion: Medicinal plants and their extracts and herbs have shown positive results in combating SARS-CoV-2 infection and could help treat COVID-19 patients as alternatives to care under phytotherapy approaches during this disastrous pandemic scenario. Conclusion(s): Finally, we presented the advantages and disadvantages of using cinchona herbal medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as some observations and suggestions.Copyright All © 2023 are reserved by International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research. This Journal licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.

Dual Modulators of Selected Plant Secondary Metabolites Targeting COVID-19 Main Protease and Interleukin-2: An In-Silico Approach based Novel Hypothesis

Background: Owing to the recent scenario on this ongoing Coronavirus pandemic outbreak around the world, the present study has been undertaken. Aim(s): In this study, we adopted two strategies, i.e., via computational method, a search for the novel plant secondary metabolites from the Indian Traditional Medicine to target and combat the enduring novel 2019 CoVs main protease that causes pneumonia, followed by the effect of these selected secondary metabolites on the host's immune system for their immunomodulatory potential on Interleukin-2. Method(s): A detailed literature review has been done to identify the assorted plant secondary metabolites from the natural sources, which have been extensively used traditionally for their immunomodulatory potential. Next, the resulting compounds have processed for the molecular docking study to predict whether the compounds have the potency to fight against 2019-CoVs protein or it could have the ten-dency to battle the cytokines, which are responsible for the immune response of the host, thereby pre-venting the CoVs caused infection in humans. Furthermore, to explore molecular mechanics, the in-silico docking study with COVID-19 Mpro and Interleukin-2 has been performed. Results & Discussion: Among the six secondary metabolites selected, five compounds showed its possible promising potency with COVID-19 and IL-2 proteins, which are compared with the standard drug Remdesivir, one of the anti-viral drugs for treating and managing the present coronavirus condition and an IL-2 inhibitor, which is the native IL-2 ligand protein (i.e., from PDB Id-1PW6) itself. Besides, based on the docking scores, the Curcumin (from Curcuma longa) showed the highest score towards these two targets taken for this study. The identified compounds have a promising binding affinity with the Mpro receptors, in the narrow range of binding energy for the protein PDB Id: 6LU7 and the score range between-10.9102 to-19.8790 kcal/mol: when compared to the standard-21.8600 kcal/mol. Whereas, the binding affinity with the Interleukin-2 receptor, for the protein PDB Id: 1PW6 the range between-11.3899 to-17.1366 kcal/mol: when compared to that of standard-16.9554 kcal/mol. Conclusion(s): Our result findings demonstrate that the integrated Indian traditional herbal treatment might be hopefully used for the viral respiratory infection due to either it may have acted directly on the viral protein or through regulating the immune response, which could lead to the rapid drug discovery of the drug leads with clinical potency towards the novel infectious disease, where there is no drug or vaccines are available.Copyright © 2021 Bentham Science Publishers.

Defensive qi (qi defensivum, weiqi): its modern use according to the treatise on cold damage (Shanghan lun) and the doctrine of warm diseases (morbi temperati, wenbing).

Weiqi, defensive qi (qi defensivum, weiqi) is deployed throughout the external surfaces (extima, biao) and flows through the channels. This defensive qi (qi defensivum, weiqi) protects the body from external heteropathies (xie). It also regulates body temperature, sweating, circadian rhythm and sensory perceptions. In the system of six main channels in the Treatise on Cold Damage (Shanghan lun) a disorder of the major yang (yang maior, taiyang) is regarded as an illness of the defensive qi (qi defensivum, weiqi). In the four-levels model of Warm Diseases (morbi temperati, wenbing) a disturbance of this defensive layer (qi defensivum, weiqi) is related to the early stage of fever caused by warm pathogens (calor heteropathies, rexie) as, for example, in the case of influenza, pneumonia, Covid-19, etc. This article cites passages from the Treatise on Cold Damage (Shanghan lun) and from the doctrine of Warm Diseases (morbi temperati, wenbing) for the treatment with Chinese phytotherapy;it also describes the corresponding acupuncture points and moxibustion treatments and how the theory of defensive qi (qi defensivum, weiqi) is to be applied in the treatment of long Covid, sleep disorders, depression and anxiety, sweating and bi-syndrome.Copyright © 2023, The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.

In Silico Insight into the Inhibitory Effects of Active Antidiabetic Compounds from Medicinal Plants Against SARS-CoV-2 Replication and Post-translational Modification

Background: The recent reemergence of the coronavirus (COVID-19) caused by the virus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has prompted the search for effective treatments in the forms of drugs and vaccines. Aim(s): In this regard, we performed an in silico study on 39 active antidiabetic compounds of medicinal plants to provide insight into their possible inhibitory potentials against SARS-CoV-2 replications and post-translational modifications. Top 12 active antidiabetic compounds with potential for dual inhibition of the replications and post-translational modifications of SARS-CoV-2 were ana-lyzed. Result(s): Boswellic acids, celastrol, rutin, sanguinarine, silymarin, and withanolides expressed binding energy for 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) (-8.0 to-8.9 Kcal/mol), papain-like protease (PLpro) (-9.1 to-10.2 Kcal/mol), and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) (-8.5 to-9.1 Kcal/-mol) which were higher than the reference drugs (Lopinavir and Remdesivir) used in this study. Sanguinarine, silymarin, and withanolides are the most druggable phytochemicals among other phy-tochemicals as they follow Lipinski's rule of five analyses. Sanguinarine, silymarin, and withano-lides expressed moderate solubility with no hepatotoxicity, while silymarin and withanolides could not permeate the blood-brain barrier and showed no Salmonella typhimurium reverse mutation as-say (AMES) toxicity, unlike sanguinarine from the predictive absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination, and toxicity (ADMET) studies. Conclusion(s): Sanguinarine, silymarin, and withanolides could be proposed for further experimental studies for their development as possible phytotherapy for the COVID-19 pandemic.Copyright © 2022 Bentham Science Publishers.

An Ethnobotanical Survey of COVID-19 Therapeutic Plants

After the emergence of COVID-19, the global usage of herbal medicine has expanded considerably. Exploring the scientific and clinical potential of medicinal plants, the World Health Organization (WHO) promotes projects to create COVID-19 medicines via traditional medicine. The purpose of our research was to compile a list of plants used in the outpatient treatment of COVID-19 by herbalists, including the plants, the sections utilized, and the method of preparation and administration. an ethnobotanical survey was done in order to determine the plants prescribed by herbalists to their COVID-19 patients/clients. In our investigation, we discovered 14 plant species, with Eucalyptus globulus, Lavandula angustifolia, Artemisia herbacea alba, Syzygium aromaticum, and Thymus vulgaris being the most often suggested.Copyright © 2023, Dr Yashwant Research Labs Pvt Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biochanin A as a modulator of the inflammatory response: An updated overview and therapeutic potential.

Uncontrolled inflammation and failure to resolve the inflammatory response are crucial factors involved in the progress of inflammatory diseases. Current therapeutic strategies aimed at controlling excessive inflammation are effective in some cases, though they may be accompanied by severe side effects, such as immunosuppression. Phytochemicals as a therapeutic alternative can have a fundamental impact on the different stages of inflammation and its resolution. Biochanin A (BCA) is an isoflavone known for its wide range of pharmacological properties, especially its marked anti-inflammatory effects. Recent studies have provided evidence of BCA's abilities to activate events essential for resolving inflammation. In this review, we summarize the most recent findings from pre-clinical studies of the pharmacological effects of BCA on the complex signaling network associated with the onset and resolution of inflammation and BCA's potential protective functionality in several models of inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis, pulmonary disease, neuroinflammation, and metabolic disease.

In silico investigation and identification of bioactive compounds from medicinal plants as potential inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 cellular entry

The present study conducted an in silico investigation and identifications of bioactive compounds from medicinal plants against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) cellular entry. Thirty nine (39) bioactive compounds with evidence of in vitro or in vivo antidiabetic activities from medicinal plants were utilized in order to provide insight about their possible inhibitory potentials against SARS-CoV-2 cellular entry. Results from this study showed that silymarin, sanguinarine, withanolides, boswellic acids, fisetin, celastrol, neferine, ursolic acid, rutin, gambogic acid, quercetin, and luteolin expressed multiple binding capacity against nucleocapsid dimerization domain (−10.7 to −8.4kcal/mol), spike's protein binding domain (−10.0 to −8.1kcal/mol), and spike receptor-binding domain (−10.8 to −9.0kcal/mol) compared to lopinavir and remdesivir which were used as reference compounds in the study. However, withanolides, fisetin, luteolin, sanguinarine, and silymarin are most druggable phytochemicals as they obey the Lipinski's rule of five analyses with no signs of in silico predictory toxicity. Thus, they are recommended for further studies for the development of phytotherapy formulation to combat SARS-CoV-2 disease. © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Introduction to clove: Chemistry, functionality, and techno-applications

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is a spice globally used as a food preservative and for medical applications. Nowadays, S. aromaticum is cultured in several parts of the world. S. aromaticum is rich in phenolic constituents (i.e., eugenol and eugenol acetate) and possesses the potential for food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and agricultural applications. Eugenol is a major bioactive constituent of S. aromaticum oil recovered from buds and leaves. Eugenol biological traits have been well-investigated, including analgesic, antiinflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. The health-promoting activities of clove are higher than several vegetables, fruits, and spices. Eugenol (C10H12O2) is considered safe as a food additive and is used to protect food from microorganisms and as a fumigant and pesticide. In addition, it is included in many dental formulations and helps with enhanced skin permeation of drugs. This handbook aims to establish a multidisciplinary discussion on the development of S. aromaticum phytochemistry, technology, processing, agricultural practices, functional traits, health-enhancing potential, mechanism of action, and toxicity as well as food and nonfood uses. The studies reported in this project confirm the functional applications of S. aromaticum as a medicinal plant, standing out for the significance of its novel applications. © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Combined effect of traditional Chinese herbal-based formulations Jing Si herbal tea and Jing Si nasal drop inhibits adhesion and transmission of SARS-CoV2 in diabetic SKH-1 mice.

Multiple studies show increased severity of SARS-CoV2-infection in patients with comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes. In this study, we have prepared two herbal-based formulations, a pleiotropic herbal drink (Jin Si Herbal Tea, JHT) and a nasal drop (Jin Si nasal drop, JND), to provide preventive care against SARS-CoV2 infection. The effect of JHT and JND was determined in SARS-CoV2-S-pseudotyped lentivirus-infected bronchial and colorectal cell lines and in SKH-1 mouse models. For preliminary studies, ACE2 receptor abundant bronchial (Calu-3) and colorectal cells (Caco-2) were used to determine the effect of JHT and JND on the host entry of various variants of SARS-CoV2-S-pseudotyped lentivirus. A series of experiments were performed to understand the infection rate in SKH-1 mice (6 weeks old, n = 9), find the effective dosage of JHT and JND, and determine the combination effect of JHT and JND on the entry and adhesion of various variant SARS-CoV2-S-pseudotyped lentiviruses, which included highly transmissible delta and gamma mutants. Furthermore, the effect of combined JHT and JND was determined on diabetes-induced SKH-1 mice against the comorbidity-associated intense viral entry and accumulation. In addition, the effect of combined JHT and JND administration on viral transmission from infected SKH-1 mice to uninfected cage mate mice was determined. The results showed that both JHT and JND were effective in alleviating the viral entry and accumulation in the thorax and the abdominal area. While JHT showed a dose-dependent decrease in the viral load, JND showed early inhibition of viral entry from day 1 of the infection. Combined administration of 48.66 mg of JHT and 20 µL of JND showed rapid reduction in the viral entry and reduced the viral load (97-99%) in the infected mice within 3 days of treatment. Moreover, 16.22 mg of JHT and 20 µL JND reduced the viral infection in STZ-induced diabetic SKH-1 mice. Interestingly, combined JHT and JND also inhibited viral transmission among cage mates. The results, therefore, showed that combined administration of JHT and JND is a novel and an efficient strategy to potentially prevent SARS-CoV2 infection.

Phytochemicals in the Prevention and Treatment of SARS-CoV-2-Clinical Evidence.

The first case of SARS-CoV-2 infection was reported in December 2019. Due to the rapid spread of the disease and the lack of adequate therapy, the use of plants that have a long history in the treatment of viral infections has often been considered. The aim of this paper is to provide a brief review of the literature on the use of phytochemicals during the new pandemic. An extensive search of published works was performed through platforms Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science and Clinicaltrials.gov. Numerous preclinical studies on the use of phytochemicals (quercetin, curcumin, baicalin, kaempferol, resveratrol, glycyrrhizin, lycorine, colchicine) against SARS-CoV-2 have shown that these components can be effective in the prevention and treatment of this infection. Clinical research has proven that the use of black cumin and green propolis as well as quercetin has positive effects. As for other phytochemicals, in addition to preclinical testing which has already been carried out, it would be necessary to conduct clinical tests in order to assert their effectiveness. For those phytochemicals whose clinical efficacy has been proven, it would be necessary to conduct research on a larger number of patients, so that the conclusions are more representative.

Rational phytotherapy as an alternative treatment for acute respiratory tract infections

Acute respiratory tract infections in children are the most common reason for primary care appointments. Although the vast majority of cases are viral, antibiotic therapy, which involves more risks than benefits in these patients, is still overused, contributing to antibiotic resistance and adverse effects. Almost all recommendations indicate avoiding such approach and use symptomatic treatment supplemented with plant-based formulations instead. There is abundance of different medicinal plants that contain compounds with proven antiviral, antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, which effectively support the combat against respiratory infections, especially if combined in one product (synergism). Contemporary rational phytotherapy assumes a scientific approach to plant-derived formulations, and it should be emphasised that the registration of herbal medicines is subject to the same restrictions as in the case of synthetic drugs. The paper discusses the composition and activity of compounds contained in medicinal plants and their role in the treatment of respiratory tract infections, with main focus on Pelargonium sidoides and elderberry, the properties of which have so far been the most thoroughly investigated and described. Their efficacy and safety in different forms of respiratory tract infections were discussed, showing that the use of products based on these plants significantly reduces disease duration and severity of clinical symptoms, as well as the need to use other agents, including antibiotics. The reasons for the use of Pelargonium sidoides preparations in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 were also presented.

Use of Karmolis® DROPS in Comprehensive Rehabilitation after COVID-19

Aim. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the use of KARMOLIS® DROPS in the rehabilitation of patients after COVID-19 infection. Material and methods. The study included and completed observation of 40 medical staff aged 20 to 60 years who had suffered from COVID-19 in a moderate to severe form. The follow-up period was 21 days. The study participants were divided into two groups. The main group (20 people) received KARMOLIS® DROPS. The control group (20 people) treatment was carried out without the use of KARMOLIS® DROPS. The effectiveness was evaluated according to a set of clinical and functional indicators. Results and discussion. Against the background of taking KARMOLIS® DROPS, reliable positive dynamics of the subjective assessment of shortness of breath (MRC scale) and the subjective assessment of sleep quality (Vane A.M. scale) were recorded in the main group. Subjective efficacy of the studied KARMOLIS ® DROPS was noted by almost all patients who underwent treatment, which is probably due to improved sleep and well-being by reducing autonomic reactions. Taking into account the data obtained during the study, KARMOLIS® DROPS can be used in the recovery process after COVID-19 as a component of comprehensive rehabilitation. Conclusion. The safety of using the herbal medicine KARMOLIS® DROPS was confirmed by the absence of adverse events and cases of decompensation of concomitant diseases during the study. Patients' emotionally positive perception of the drug ensured its high compliance. © 2022 Rostovskii Gosudarstvennyi Meditsinskii Universitet. All rights reserved.

Phytotherapy and Dietotherapy of COVID-19-An Online Survey Results from Central Part of Balkan Peninsula.

Since the appearance of the novel coronavirus disease of 2019-COVID-19, various therapeutic approaches were attempted, with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) taking an important place. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of CAM with the purpose of prevention or treatment of COVID-19 during the pandemics. A prospective, cross-sectional study, in the form of an on-line survey was conducted. A total of 1704 responses were collected. Among the respondents, 2.76% declared currently and 22.12% previously having COVID-19. Approximately one quarter of interviewees (23.24%) declared themselves as phytotherapy users. The most frequently used medicinal plants were garlic, ginger and chamomile. The majority of respondents stated that they expected positive effects on immune and respiratory system. Medicinal plants were frequently used, on a daily basis. The main sources of information for applied self-medication were populistic thematic literature, followed by the Internet. Approximately one-third of phytotherapy users (35.25%) consulted with a medical professional before the application of phytotherapy. Regarding dietotherapy, 41.14% of respondents reported using non-herbal dietary supplements, while only 7.16% reported specific diet. The presented results suggest that CAM is recognized and readily used as a potential alternative and complementary regimen in the fight against COVID-19.

Phytotherapy against Coronavirus Pandemic: Chances or missed Opportunities?

At the beginning of the third year of the pandemic, we are overlooking numerous publications on possible preventive and therapeutic benefts of phytotherapy against SARS-CoV 2. Most of the publications describe very promising preclinical e?ects. Clinical benefts however, have been demonstrated to a very limited extent. The article points to gaps that need to be flled, while dealing deliberately only with plants that are part of phytotherapy in Western countries.

Las plantas medicinales en la prevención y el tratamiento de la COVID-19

Introduction: medicinal plants are a useful and accessible therapeutic resource to solve health problems. COVID-19 has been the most difficult health challenge that man has faced in the XXI century and to combat it he has resorted to all possible therapeutic options, including medicinal plants. Objective: to describe the use of medicinal plants against COVID-19 in the Municipality of Santa Clara. Methods: an exploratory descriptive study was carried out in Santa Clara, Villa Clara Province, during the months of January and February 2021. Random surveys were applied to people from three popular councils and the use of medicinal plants for this disease was investigated. The different treatment protocols proposed by the Ministry of Public Health and other scientific literature on the subject were reviewed in order to contrast the results obtained. Results: 60 people were surveyed, with a predominance of women and medium level of schooling. 55% referred to the use of the drug. Fifty-five percent reported the use of homemade or pharmaceutical phytopreparations for possible symptoms or as a preventive measure. The most commonly used plants were Aloe barbadensis (aloe vera), Plectranthus amboinicus (French oregano), Citrus aurantium (orange) and Allium cepa (onion). This coincides with that established in the treatment protocols proposed in Cuba from version 1.2. The review of scientific literature showed the proposal of the mentioned plants and others with the purpose of treating symptoms and raising people's immunity (or both). Conclusions: the population of Santa Clara employs medicinal plants and their preparations to prevent and treat symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 in correspondence with what has been established in Cuban treatment protocols. Bibliographic reviews corroborate these medicinal uses. (English) [ FROM AUTHOR] Introducción: las plantas medicinales son un recurso terapéutico útil y accesible para resolver problemas de salud. La COVID-19 ha sido el reto de salud más difícil que el hombre ha enfrentado en el siglo XXI y para combatirla ha acudido a todas las opciones terapéuticas posibles, incluidas las plantas medicinales. Objetivo: describir el uso de plantas medicinales ante la COVID-19 en el Municipio de Santa Clara. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo exploratorio en Santa Clara, Provincia de Villa Clara, durante los meses de enero y febrero de 2021. Se aplicaron encuestas aleatorias a personas de tres consejos populares y se indagó sobre el uso de plantas medicinales ante esta enfermedad. Fueron revisados los diversos protocolos de tratamiento propuestos por el Ministerio de Salud Pública y otras literaturas científicas que abordan el tema con el objetivo de contrastar los resultados obtenidos. Resultados: se encuestaron 60 personas, predominaron las mujeres y el nivel medio de escolaridad. El 55% refirió el uso de fitopreparados caseros o farmacéuticos ante posibles síntomas o de manera preventiva. Las plantas más empleadas fueron Aloe barbadensis (sábila), Plectranthus amboinicus (orégano francés), Citrus aurantium (naranja) y Allium cepa (cebolla). Esto coincide con lo establecido en los protocolos de tratamiento propuestos en Cuba a partir de la versión 1.2. La revisión de literatura científica mostró la propuesta de las plantas mencionadas y otras más con el propósito de tratar síntomas y de elevar la inmunidad de las personas (o ambos). Conclusiones: la población de Santa Clara emplea plantas medicinales y sus preparados para prevenir y tratar síntomas sugestivos de COVID-19 en correspondencia con lo establecido en los protocolos de tratamiento cubanos. Revisiones bibliográficas realizadas corroboran estos usos medicinales. (Spanish) [ FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of Acta Médica del Centro is the property of Hospital Provincial Universitario Clinico Quirurgico Arnaldo Milian Castro and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full . (Copyright applies to all s.)

Efficacy of polyherbal formulations for prevention of COVID-19 infection in high-risk subjects: A randomized open-label controlled clinical trial.

COVID-19 is arguably the biggest health crisis the world has faced in the 21st century. Therefore, two of the polyherbal formulations, Infuza and Kulzam were assessed for the prevention of COVID-19 infection as a repurposed medication. Four hundred seven high-risk subjects were recruited in the present open-label randomized controlled clinical trial for eligibility. After assessment for eligibility, remaining 251 subjects were randomized to the test and control groups. Further, 52 high-risk subjects in Infuza, 51 in Kulzam, 51 in Infuza & Kulzam and 53 in control group completed the 14 days of intervention/assessment. The phenotyping of lymphocytes at baseline (0 day) and after 14 days of treatment was carried out by flow cytometry assays. A total of 15.09% high-risk subjects in control group turned positive as compared to only 7.69% in Infuza, 3.92% in Kulzam and 1.96% in Infuza & Kulzam groups. The rate of conversion to COVID-19 infection in Infuza & Kulzam group was minimal and statistically significant as compared to control group (p0.017). No significant changes in phenotype of lymphocytes (T, B, NK cells), absolute lymphocyte count and cytokine levels were found in study groups. However, there was a decreasing trend of hs-CRP level in high-risk subjects after intervention of polyherbal formulations for 14 days. The combination of Infuza and Kulzam may synergistically prevent COVID-19 infection in high-risk subjects of COVID-19.

Medicinal Herbs in the Relief of Neurological, Cardiovascular, and Respiratory Symptoms after COVID-19 Infection A Literature Review.

COVID-19 infection causes complications, even in people who have had a mild course of the disease. The most dangerous seem to be neurological ailments: anxiety, depression, mixed anxiety-depressive (MAD) syndromes, and irreversible dementia. These conditions can negatively affect the respiratory system, circulatory system, and heart functioning. We believe that phytotherapy can be helpful in all of these conditions. Clinical trials confirm this possibility. The work presents plant materials (Valeriana officinalis, Melissa officinalis, Passiflora incarnata, Piper methysticum, Humulus lupulus, Ballota nigra, Hypericum perforatum, Rhodiola rosea, Lavandula officinalis, Paullinia cupana, Ginkgo biloba, Murraya koenigii, Crataegus monogyna and oxyacantha, Hedera helix, Polygala senega, Pelargonium sidoides, Lichen islandicus, Plantago lanceolata) and their dominant compounds (valeranon, valtrate, apigenin, citronellal, isovitexin, isoorientin, methysticin, humulone, farnesene, acteoside, hypericin, hyperforin, biapigenin, rosavidin, salidroside, linalool acetate, linalool, caffeine, ginkgolide, bilobalide, mihanimbine, epicatechin, hederacoside C,α-hederine, presegenin, umckalin, 6,7,8-trixydroxybenzopyranone disulfate, fumaroprotocetric acid, protolichesteric acid, aucubin, acteoside) responsible for their activity. It also shows the possibility of reducing post-COVID-19 neurological, respiratory, and cardiovascular complications, which can affect the functioning of the nervous system.

A Review on Schizophrenia: Outline and Treatment

Schizophrenia is a debilitating, genetic brain condition caused by anomalies that appear early in infancy and interrupt normal brain development. It has a lifetime risk of 1% and affects people of all ages, with around 10% dying by suicide. COVID-19 may raise the risk of mortality and morbidity in people with schizophrenia. Although antipsychotic medications of the first, second, and third generations are the most commonly prescribed treatments for schizophrenia, they are linked to major side effects such as tardive dyskinesia, oxidative stress, and EPS. Ayurvedic herbal medications and some dietary supplements score well in this category since they can be taken for a long time without causing major adverse effects and have antioxidant properties. Low potency first generation antipsychotics, sedating antihistamines, and benzodiazepines, as well as inhalable antipsychotics, oral and short acting injectable olanzapine, and ziprasidone, as well as low potency first generation antipsychotics, sedating antihistamines, and benzodiazepines, should be avoided or closely monitored for patients with COVID-19. Mentally ill patients with COVID-19 should be segregated if at all possible, and employees should be adequately protected.