Spices boosting immunity in COVID-19

ABSTRACT

COVID-19 caused by the severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) is likely to cause oxidative stress like other RNA viruses. The cytokine storm mechanism includes pulmonary alveolar membranes hyalinization, hyper-inflammation and lethal respiratory distress. Persons with diabetes, asthma and heart problems already have oxidative stress;viral infection increases stress and, thus contribute to COVID-19 severity. Traditional Indian spices will serve as boosters of energy and immunity and prepare the body for the prevention of infection and immunization. The spices which were included in this article are Ginger (Zingiber officinale L.), Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.), Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum L.), Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.), Bay leaves (Cinnamomum tamala (Buch.-Ham.) T. Nees and C. H. Eberm., Laurus nobilis L.), Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.), Asafoetida (Ferulaassa-foetida L.), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.), Nutmeg and Mace (Myristica fragrans Houtt.), Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), Garlic (Allium Sativum L.), Allspice (Pimenta officinalis (L.) Merr.), Peppermint (Mentha x piperita L./Mentha balsamea Wild), Pepper (Capsicum frutescens L., Capsicum baccatum L., Capsicum annuum L.), Star anise (Illicium verum Hook. f.), Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague ex Turrill), Black pepper (Piper nigrum L.), Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum J.S. Presl.), Cardamom (Alpinia cardamomum (L.) Roxb.;Amomum cardamomum L.), Mustard (Brassica nigra (L.) Koch) and Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill). The use of spices can help in decreasing the severity and help in the prevention of coronavirus infection. These spices contain polyphenols, flavonoids, saponins and alkaloids. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of spices can potentiate health functionality by acting on various pathological processes. The risks of coronavirus (COVID-19) can be mitigated with a special reference the respiratory health by the use of these spices every day, which strengthens the natural protection mechanism (immunity) of the body. Spices acting as immunity boosters not only helps to stay healthy from seasonal flu, but also possesses anti-viral properties to combat coronavirus. The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India also endorses these immunity boosting spices and their proper use. In this study, numerous conventional spices and their bioactive components and effects have been compiled and discussed to help improve our immune system and also play a key role in the battle against microbial infections, like COVID-19. This paper will help researchers and industries to recognize and analyze possible spices that can satisfy their interests for various applications, including the development of herbal/Ayurvedic antiviral drugs.