Bupleurum is a large genus of annual or perennial herbs or woody shrubs, with about 190 species, belonging to the family Apiaceae. The full size of its species may vary between a few cm to up to 3 m high. Their compound umbels of small flowers are adorned with bracteoles that are sometimes large and may play a role in attracting pollinators. Rare among the Apiaceae are the simple leaves, bracts (if present), and bracteoles. The genus is almost exclusively native in the Old World Northern Hemisphere, ...

bupleurum

Why-are-hepatitis-viruses-dangerous?

Why are hepatitis viruses dangerous? 

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Hepatitis viruses are a serious problem around the world. Hepatitis A, a major cause of acute hepatitis in many parts of the world, is in serious decline in the developed world as a result of the existence of an effective vaccine. The disease remains prevalent in the developing world. Hepatitis B is also significantly inhibited by vaccination in the developed world, but remains a major cause of chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver cancer in parts of Africa and Asia.

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It is important to suggest that viral hepatitis can be fatal. Viral hepatitis types A, B, C, D and E can cause infection and subsequent inflammation of the liver, which can lead to serious diseases, including liver cancer or even death. People infected with hepatitis A and E almost always recover and do not need treatment. In the case of viruses B, C and D, infection can become chronic and some patients may develop a more serious diagnosis, such as liver cancer or cirrhosis. However, if the infection is detected in time, it can be treated.

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In turn, people with the hepatitis C virus can make a full recovery, and there are vaccines that protect against viral hepatitis A, B, D and E.

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Herbal-treatment-for-different-subtypes-of-viral-hepatitis

Herbal treatment for different subtypes of viral hepatitis 

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We distinguish several main types of acute viral infections of the liver – these are hepatitis A, E, B and C. They correspond to the subtype of virus that is causative. As you will see from the article, there is a wide range of herbal remedies that can be applied to any type of hepatitis. It is advisable to do this after consulting a medical practitioner in case other drugs are taken or there are specifics in the person's condition.

Herbs-in-acute-hepatitis

Herbs in acute hepatitis  

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Andrographis-paniculata

Andrographis paniculata 

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A hepatoprotective (providing a protective effect to the liver) and antiviral herb seems an ideal recommendation in case of acute infection with the hepatitis A virus. Andrographis paniculata (Andrographis stalk), a Southeast Asian herb of the Acanthaceae family, meets these criteria. The leaves are highly bitter and, according to traditional medicine, are used for liver-related problems. The leaves have been extensively studied and have been shown to be beneficial for people with acute upper respiratory tract viral infections, although most of the studies involved a major producer of extracts from the plant, and negative results may not be Published.&nbsp;

Silybum-marianum

Silybum marianum 

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The seeds of Silybum marianum (milk thistle), specifically the flavonolignan complex known as silymarin extracted from the seeds, have been studied in patients with acute viral hepatitis. The most recent and high-quality study involved patients with acute hepatitis A, B, C or E; cytomegalovirus; or associated with Epstein-Barr hepatitis virus in Egypt.&nbsp;

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Patients were treated with either 140 mg. Three times a day silymarin or multivitamins for 28 days. Jaundice decreases faster in silymarin than in the group of people taking the multivitamin, and tends to reduce other symptoms, such as fatigue and anorexia, more quickly in favor of silymarine. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19303273/" target="_blank" data-ref="A randomized controlled trial to assess the safety and efficacy of silymarin on symptoms, signs and biomarkers of acute hepatitis - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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In a much smaller study, silymarin at a dose of 140 mg, three times a day, lowered serum transaminase and bilirubin levels more effectively than placebo in patients with acute hepatitis A or B. Although there is not enough evidence yet, at least we know that silymarin is extremely safe to use. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/353464/" target="_blank" data-ref="[Results of a double blind study on the effect of silymarin in the treatment of acute viral hepatitis, carried out at two medical centres (author's transl)] - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;2]&nbsp;

Herbal-formula-Liv.52-(Liv.52)

Herbal formula Liv.52 (Liv.52) 

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An herbal formula known as Liv.52 has also been studied in people with viral hepatitis caused by hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis E virus. It is unclear whether this is a traditional formula or a modern recipe; the ingredients are as follows:

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<ul><li aria-level="1">Capparis spinosa&nbsp;</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Cichorium intybus&nbsp;</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Terminalia arjuna</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Solanum nigrum</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Achillea millefolium&nbsp;</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Cassia occidentalis</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Tamarix gallica</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Ferric oxide calx&nbsp;</li></ul>Several double-blind studies conducted in India have suggested that Liv.52 is effective in patients with acute hepatitis. Most of the formulas were not originally published in English or were in non-mainstream publications. Given these data, it still appears that Liv.52 may clear symptoms and reduce serum bilirubin faster than placebo. The typical Liv.52 dose is 275-550 mg. three times a day in capsules or 5-10 ml. syrup three times a day. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0944711305000528" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

Other-herbs-of-alternative-medicine

Other herbs of alternative medicine 

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Various other Western and Eastern herbs are widely used as antiviral drugs during other acute infections and should be considered clinically and for research projects to help people recover from acute viral hepatitis faster. These herbs include Ligusticum porteri root (Osha), Ligusticum grayi root, Lomatium dissectum root (Lomatium), herb Forsythia suspensa (Forsitia, Forsycia), herb Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort) and Coptis chinensis (Golden thread).

Herbs-in-chronic-hepatitis

Herbs in chronic hepatitis 

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)

Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) and G. uralensis (Ural liquorice) 

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Chronic hepatitis C is an extremely common problem around the world. Hepatitis C is usually a very slow-growing disease and can have a wide range of manifestations. A large proportion of people with hepatitis C remain asymptomatic or oligosymptomatic. The main areas of therapeutic interest are to prevent progression of the disease to cirrhosis of the liver or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to reduce symptoms, if present.&nbsp;

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Interferons and ribavirin are currently used for most patients to suppress viral load, but the drugs are expensive, cause many adverse effects and are not always effective enough. A very large HALT-C study recently found that treatment with IFN-a-2a for many years was not effective in preventing the progression of chronic hepatitis C. Therefore, other means, including herbal ones, should be sought.&nbsp;

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Many long-term studies have looked at the triterpenoid saponin known as glycyrrhizin, found in the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) and G. uralensis (Ural liquorice) for patients with chronic hepatitis C. Glycyrrhizin can also be given by intravenous injection together with glycine and cysteine as the drug Stronger Neo-Minophagen C. However, the effects of its administration have not been sufficiently studied in the laboratory.

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More impressively, at least three studies in Japan have shown that SNMC may reduce the risk of developing cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis C. One of these studies was a retrospective analysis of 456 patients with chronic hepatitis C seen in hospitals, most of whom had not responded to interferon treatment. The risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in patients whose serum ALT fell below 1.5, the upper limit of normal, was 60% lower compared to patients who did not receive this reduction. The average duration of therapy was 4.1 years. <a href="https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/48283" target="_blank" data-ref="" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;4]&nbsp;

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It is not known whether oral licorice products (Glycyrrhiza glabra) would be useful for people with chronic hepatitis C, although the herb is definitely a traditional remedy for liver problems. Assumptions about its potential value come from the use of the shosaiko-to formula in patients with chronic hepatitis B. This formula includes the following herbs:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bupleurum falcatum - root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Paeonia lactiflora - root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pinellia ternata - rhizome, 14%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cinnamomum cassia- bark, 11%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiber officinale - rhizome, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zizyphus jujuba &mdash;fruit, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Panax ginseng &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scutellaria baicalensis &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glycyrrhiza uralensis &mdash;rhizome, 5%</li></ul>People taking licorice or glycyrrhizin in any form should be warned to regularly monitor their blood pressure and potassium levels in serum or urine. Doses should be reduced or treatment stopped if these parameters become imbalanced. Potassium-depleting diuretics enhance glycyrrhizin toxicity and should not be combined with it except under very close medical supervision.

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Taraxacum-officinale-(Dandelion)-and-root-of-Arctium-lappa-(burdock)

Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion) and root of Arctium lappa (burdock) 

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Other traditional hepatoprotective herbs are Taraxacum officinale root (Dandelion) and Arctium lappa root (burdock). These herbs are commonly used by herbalists and naturopathic doctors in chronic hepatitis C and should be considered in research.

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Another herb that counteracts inflammation is Curcuma longa (turmeric), which also has a strong history of use as a hepatoprotective agent and has been shown to reduce inflammation in hepatocytes and protect these cells against iron overload.&nbsp;

Chronic-hepatitis-B

Chronic hepatitis B  

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The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an epidemic in Asia and Africa, although the availability of a vaccine is beginning to reduce the incidence of this disease. Unlike chronic hepatitis C, chronic hepatitis B is much more likely to progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, there is an acute need for an effective, safe alternative to drug therapies (to which the virus often develops resistance if taken long-term) for this complex and difficult disease.

Shosaiko-to-formula

Shosaiko-to formula 

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The traditional formula, known in Chinese as Xiao Chai Hu Tang and in Japanese as shosaiko-to, which translates into English as Minor Bupleurum Decoction, was first recorded in the book Shang Han Lun. This treatise was written at least 2,000 years ago, and its postulates have been applied for at least as much.&nbsp;

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The ingredients of the Xiao Chai Hu Tang formula are:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bupleurum falcatum - root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Paeonia lactiflora- root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pinellia ternatа - rhizome, 14%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cinnamomum cassia&nbsp; - bark, 11%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiber officinale- rhizome, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zizyphus jujuba &mdash;fruit, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Panax ginseng &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scutellaria baicalensis &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glycyrrhiza uralensis &mdash;rhizome, 5%</li></ul>Two randomized trials have evaluated the long-term potential of this formula for the prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic hepatitis B in Japan. In the first study, 260 patients with cirrhosis caused by chronic hepatitis B were treated with conventional therapies, and some subjects were also randomized to take 7.5 g daily shosaiko-to for 34 months. The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma at the end of the follow-up period was significantly lower in the shosaiko-to group compared to patients in the control group. In what appears to be an extension of the original study to 60 months, HCC levels are still lower and survival is better in the shosaiko-to group than in the conventional therapy group. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8625175/" target="_blank" data-ref="Prospective study of chemoprevention of hepatocellular carcinoma with Sho-saiko-to (TJ-9) - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;5]&nbsp;

Fuzheng-Huayu-formula

Fuzheng Huayu formula 

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Another formula based on herbs traditionally used for liver problems and experimentally proven to have antifibrotic action and benefits in patients with cirrhosis has been studied in patients with chronic hepatitis B. The ingredients of the formula are:

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Salvia miltiorrhiza (Chinese sage) - root 33.3%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Gynostemma pentaphyllum - root 25%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fermentation mycelium powder - 16.7%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Schisandra chinensis (Schisandra) - fruit 8.3%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Prunus persica (Peach)—seed 8.3%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pinus spp. (Pine) - pollen 8,3%</li></ol>

There are many herbal remedies that can be used in the subtypes of viral hepatitis. Their role is to exert a hepatoprotective effect, that is, to protect the liver from or prevent damage. Herbal treatment for viral hepatitis can be carried out using a large number of herbs and herbal formulas, some of which come from Chinese or Indian traditional medicine, but also from other alternative healing&nbsp; systems.

Herbal treatment for viral hepatitis - which herbs support the liver

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Бетина Цветкова

Traditional-Chinese-Medicine-for-Respiratory-Viruses

Traditional Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Viruses

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The outbreak and spread of coronavirus infection (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused huge losses of lives and property around the world. Globally, as of 24 January 2023, there were 664,097,132 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 6,716,108 deaths reported to the World Health Organization (WHO). &nbsp;<a href="https://covid19.who.int/" target="_blank" data-ref="WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Dashboard" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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SARS-CoV-2 is a wrapped, single-stranded, positive, β-coronavirus RNA virus that belongs to the subfamily Coronavirinae, family Coronavirdiae, order Nidovirales. SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets, a high concentration of aerosols, and sometimes through feces or urine. Currently, no approved specific antiviral drug is recommended to deal with COVID-19. Infection with it in more severe cases can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), and even death.&nbsp;

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It is well documented that traditional Chinese medicine has accumulated abundant clinical experience and effective prescriptions for the control and treatment of infectious diseases in about 500 epidemics that have occurred in China for more than 3,000 years in the past. &nbsp;<a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11655-020-3192-6?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=fe04f653-1cd7-469c-a455-8ebe8038b5f9" target="_blank" data-ref="Can Chinese Medicine Be Used for Prevention of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)? A Review of Historical Classics, Research Evidence and Current Prevention Programs - Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

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The combination therapy of traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine significantly reduces mortality, shortens the duration of fever, reduces abnormalities of chest X-rays, and relieves secondary fungal infections among patients receiving glucocorticoids in the fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.liebertpub.com/action/cookieAbsent" target="_blank" data-ref="" rel="noopener">[ref. 3</a>] There is also evidence on the positive role of traditional Chinese medicine&nbsp; in the treatment of previous coronavirus pneumonias such as SARS, MERS and other epidemic diseases. <a href="https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/10.1142/S0192415X05002965" target="_blank" data-ref="Using Herbal Medicine as a Means of Prevention Experience During the SARS Crisis | The American Journal of Chinese Medicine" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;4]&nbsp;&nbsp;

Traditional-Chinese-medicine-in-the-treatment-of-COVID-19

Traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of COVID-19 

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From the perspective of this medical system, the different stages of COVID-19 disease can be divided into mild, moderate, severe and critical. The main models in the mild stage include balancing the lungs and removing pathogenic factors. The main models in the moderate stage include elimination of heat and moisture, detoxification and invigoration of the spleen. The main heavy-stage models focus on toning qi and yin, ventilating qi on the lungs, co-healing the lungs and intestines. Finally, critical stage models require toning qi and preventing exhaustion, cooling blood and nourishing yin and restoring consciousness. Distinguishing each stage is one of the most important principles of TCM for the treatment of COVID-19.&nbsp;

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Traditional Chinese medicine's recommended remedies for each stage of COVID-19 treatment include more than 18 natural remedies. Among them, highly recommended Chinese herbs are Scutellaria baicalensis (Huangqing), Rheum palmatum (Da Huang), Bupleurum&nbsp; chinense&nbsp; (Chai Hu), Gingko Biloba (Ping Yin), Artemisia annua (Huanghua Hao), Glycyrrhiza glabra&nbsp; (Gan Cao)&nbsp; and Zingiber officinale&nbsp; (Shen Jian).

Potential-mechanisms-of-the-most-commonly-used-Chinese-herbs-with-proven-antiviral-effect

Potential mechanisms of the most commonly used Chinese herbs with proven antiviral effect

Scutellaria-baicalensis-(Huangqing)

Scutellaria baicalensis (Huangqing)  

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Scutellaria baicalensis, commonly known as Shlenmnik Baikal or Chinese helmet, is a type of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae. &nbsp; The main bioactive compounds extracted from the root of S. baicalensis are:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Baikalin</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Vogonozide</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Baikalein Vogonin&nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S209592731630024X" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Each of these active components is known to have physiological effects as well as cytotoxic or side effects when used in high concentrations. These flavones have been reported to have different pharmacological functions, including anticancer, hepatoprotective, antibacterial and antiviral, antioxidant, anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects.&nbsp;

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Lung Fufang, a type of traditional recipe using Huangqing, has been found to be able to prolong the survival rate of patients with primary bronchial lung squamous cell carcinoma and has a similar effect in patients with NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer). &nbsp;<a href="https://scholar.google.com/scholar_lookup?journal=J+Tradit+Chin+Med+Pharm&amp;title=Reports+for+80+patients+with+bronchial+lung+squamous+carcinoma+(Mid+or+Late+Stage)+treated+Lung+FuFang+and+chemotherapy&amp;author=MQ+Pan&amp;author=YH+Li&amp;author=JA+Liu&amp;author=YX+Tan&amp;volume=5&amp;publication_year=1990&amp;pages=19-21&amp;" target="_blank" data-ref="Sorry..." rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

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The plant exerts an antiviral effect and inhibits the activity of 3CLpro. It has a beneficial effect on the proper activity of the nervous system, favors the normal processes of sleep, nervous system, immune system and cardiovascular system.&nbsp;

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It is not recommended for people suffering from liver diseases, as well as those using anti-weight loss drugs and some painkillers.

Rheum-palmatum-(Da-Huang)

Rheum palmatum (Da Huang) 

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Rheum palmatum (Dahuang) - Rheum palmatum is a species of flowering plant in the family Polygonaceae. It is commonly called Chinese rhubarb and contains the active ingredient emodin, which is thought to be able to block the pinning of the spiked protein to&nbsp; ACE2 in the case of COVID-19 infection.&nbsp;

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Emodin is a naturally occurring derivative of anthraquinone, found in the roots and leaves of various plants, fungi and lichens. It has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine as an active ingredient in herbs. Emodin has a wide range of biological actions, including diuretic, antibacterial, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer. <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/17/9522" target="_blank" data-ref="The Health Benefits of Emodin, a Natural Anthraquinone Derived from Rhubarb&mdash;A Summary Update" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;7]&nbsp;

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The use of Rheum palmatum&nbsp; (Da Huang) is also recommended for bacterial infections, overactive immune system, cough, tumors and high blood pressure.&nbsp;

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In rare cases, Rheum palmatum can irritate the digestive tract.

Bupleurum-chinense-(Chai-Hu)

Bupleurum chinense (Chai Hu)  

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Radix Bupleuri (Chaihu) is derived from Bupleurum chinense and has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for more than 2,000 years in China, Japan, Korea and other Asian countries. Phytochemical studies have shown that this plant contains essential oils, triterpenoid saponins, polyacetylenes, flavonoids, lignans, fatty acids and sterols.&nbsp;

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Crude extracts and pure compounds isolated from Radix Bupleuri showed various biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antipyretic, antimicrobial, antiviral, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects.

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However, Radix Bupleuri can also lead to hepatotoxicity, especially in high doses and with long-term use. Pharmacokinetic studies have shown that the main bioactive compounds in Chai Hu are:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">saicosaponini a</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Saicosaponi B2</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">saicosaponini c</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">saicosaponini d</li></ul>According to scientific data, Radix Bupleuri extract has a significant antiviral effect in acute respiratory tract infections with H1N1 and inhibits influenza virus-induced RANTES secretion in H1N1-infected A549 cells at concentrations of 100 and 200 μg/ml. This suggests that Radix Bupleuri may be beneficial for the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions, followed by a viral infection.&nbsp;

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In another study, the antiviral activity of saicosaponins (a, b2, c and d) and their mode of action was investigated. The results showed that all saicosaponines exhibited antiviral activity on human coronavirus-229E at concentrations of 0.25–25 μm, and the strongest activity was observed for saicosaponin b2 with an IC50 of 1.7 μm. <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1440-1681.2006.04415.x" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref.</a> &nbsp;8]&nbsp;

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At high doses, it can have the opposite effect on the liver.

Gingko-Biloba-(Pin-Yin)

Gingko Biloba (Pin Yin) 

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Ginkgo biloba, the oldest tree on the planet, originated in China and has been cultivated for thousands of years for various purposes. Ginkgo biloba is rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation. It may also be beneficial for heart health, brain function, and eye health, along with several other conditions.

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Ginkgo biloba may reduce the risk of infection due to the content of quercetin and other ingredients such as ginkgolic acid (GA), which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, acting by reducing concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines. &nbsp; The antiviral effect of ginkgo extract is mediated by various mechanisms, including blocking SARS-CoV-2 3-chymotrypsin-like protease. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ardp.202200188" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 9]</a>&nbsp;

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Ginkgo Biloba, in addition to viral infection, is also recommended for inflammation, cough, tumors and stomach ulcers.&nbsp;

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In rare cases, the following side effects can be caused: nausea, diarrhea, dizziness.

Artemisia-annua-(Huanghua-Hao)

Artemisia annua (Huanghua Hao)

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Artemisia annua (Qinghao) is the plant Sweet wormwood, which contains the active ingredient artemisinin - a natural bioactive sesquiterpene lactone. It inhibits viral replication, inflammation, and certain cancers as described in studies. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/57/3/217" target="_blank" data-ref="Antiviral and Immunomodulation Effects of Artemisia" rel="noopener">[ref. 10]</a>&nbsp;

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Artemisinin may exhibit anti-cancer properties, according to a scientific review noting that many studies have been done on the anti-cancer effects of sweet wormwood. The researchers note that this impact is due to artemisinin's ability to stop cell growth or disrupt steps in the cell cycle through proliferation pathways. Human clinical trials are needed to confirm the promising potential effects.

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There has also been a lot of research looking at the benefits of traditional herbs to help against COVID-19. Different constituents in A. annua may inhibit SARS-CoV-2 attachment, internalization in host cells, and inhibit viral replication and transcription process. Clinical trials are needed to test whether these effects are possible in humans. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2095496421000637" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 11]</a>&nbsp;

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(Gan-Cao)

Glycyrrhiza glabra (Gan Cao)  

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Licorice root is a famous aphrodisiac that is considered one of the oldest herbal remedies in the world. Historical sources for the use of Glycyrrhiza species include ancient manuscripts from China, India, and Greece. All of them mention its use in symptoms of viral infections of the respiratory tract and hepatitis.&nbsp;

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Animal studies have shown reductions in mortality and viral activity in encephalitis caused by herpes simplex virus and pneumonia caused by influenza A virus. In vitro studies reveal antiviral activity against HIV-1 associated with SARS coronavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, arboviruses, and others. <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.2295" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;12]&nbsp;

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The glycyrrhizin found in Glycyrrhiza glabra has been shown to be effective in viral hepatitis, bronchitis, gastritis and jaundice. Other main ingredients of licorice root are:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glycyrrhetinic acid</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Flavonoids</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hydroxyl coumarins</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Β-sitosterol.&nbsp;</li></ul>Very high doses of intake can increase stress, which can lead to a decrease in potassium levels, high blood pressure, muscle weakness or arrhythmia. It is contraindicated for use by people with a history of ascites, hypertension or kidney failure or who are currently using Digitalis.

Zingiber-officinale-(Shen-Jian)

Zingiber officinale (Shen Jian) 

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Ginger is a powerful antioxidant, supports the function of the urinary system and protects the functions of the brain. It has been found to be able to exert anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects and prevent inflammation. Ginger contains various components, including oils, proteins, carbohydrates, crude fiber, ash, water and volatile oil. Chemically, ginger contains over 400 different compounds, but its pharmacological effects are largely due to its terpene and phenolic compounds.&nbsp;

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The terpene ingredients of ginger include:&nbsp;

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiberen</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bisabolen</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Farnesen</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sesquiphelandrene</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Limonene</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cineole</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Linalool</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Borneol</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Geranial</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Turmeric</li></ul>Phenolic compounds derived from ginger include:&nbsp;

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Gingeroli</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Paradols</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Shogaoli</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingeroni.</li></ul>The listed active ingredients of ginger have anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antidiabetic, gastroprotective and neuroprotective effects, described in a large number of studies. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095754821000661" target="_blank" data-ref="ScienceDirectScience DirectScienceDirect helpElsevierRELX Group" rel="noopener">[ref. 13]</a>&nbsp;

How-to-Make-Tea-With-These-Herbs

How to Make Tea With These Herbs 

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If you have all the necessary herbs in the form of loose tea, brew a teaspoon of the herbal mixture in 200 ml. boiling water for 7 minutes at room temperature. Strain through gauze. Drink 200 ml. up to 2 times a day.

The potential mechanisms of herbs of traditional Chinese medicine may be beneficial in multiple viral infections. Many of the active ingredients of these herbs have been scientifically documented and studied for their antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer, and replication-inhibiting effects. The integration of available clinical and fundamental evidence into the treatment approach provides more opportunities to address various respiratory viruses, in which Chinese traditional medicine may also be useful.

bupleurum

7 Chinese herbs with proven antiviral effect