Herpes simplex is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Infections are categorized based on the part of the body infected. Oral herpes involves the face or mouth. It may result in small blisters in groups often called cold sores or fever blisters or may just cause a sore throat. Genital herpes, often simply known as herpes, may have minimal symptoms or form blisters that break open and result in small ulcers. These typically heal over two to four weeks. Tingling or shooting pains ...

herpes simplex

Top-10-Best-Essential-Oils-for-Respiratory-Infections

Top 10 Best Essential Oils for Respiratory Infections 

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Essential oils can help soothe sore throats and clear mucus, some of the characteristic symptoms of a respiratory infection.

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The medical community tends to see essential oils as an adjunct alternative therapy rather than a medical treatment. These oils should be used with caution as there are no approved guidelines regarding their dosage or potency.

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However, there are instructions, and if a person follows them, any of the 10 essential oils can help relieve the symptoms of a respiratory infection. Always before using essential oils, do a tolerance test on a small area of skin by dissolving a few drops in base oil, applying to the skin and waiting 24 hours.

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Eucalyptus essential oil 

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Many people use eucalyptus (Eucalyptus) without realizing it. Many over-the-counter products usually contain eucalyptus oil. Or they may include the main compound of the oil called eucalyptol or cineole.

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A study published in Alternative Medicine Review found that eucalyptol has an antimicrobial effect and can fight bacteria that cause disease. Eucalyptol may also help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and relieve muscle tension that may result from a cold or flu. 1

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Eucalyptus essential oil can be used to soothe cough in respiratory infections in several ways:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">By adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a base oil and rubbing the mixture onto the chest and throat;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">By diluting eucalyptus oil in boiling water and inhaling the steam.</li></ul>

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Rosemary essential oil 

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Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is a common garden herb. Like eucalyptus, it contains the compound cineole. A study published in the journal Cough found that cineole can help break down mucus and reduce inflammation. 2

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Rosemary essential oil should be diluted with base oil to inhale. Add 3-4 drops of this oil in 5-6 drops of carrier oil and massage onto the throat. You can also add a few drops of this essential oil to the diffuser and thus relieve the cough.

Peppermint-essential-oil

Peppermint essential oil 

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Herbal respiratory disease care products often contain peppermint oil (Mentha). Menthol is an extract of mint. When inhaled, it creates a cooling sensation that can soothe or relieve the scratching throat.

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A 2013 study suggested that when a healthy person uses peppermint oil, it can help relax the muscles of the trachea, known as the bronchial muscles. This may explain why this essential oil may ease breathing in people with coughs. 3

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Peppermint essential oil can be used through:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dilution of oil in boiling water and inhalation of steam</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Adding oil to a diffuser</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Use in a mixture of oils for topical application</li></ul>

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Frankincense essential oil 

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Frankincense is extracted from Boswellia trees and is often used in perfumes. It is traditionally valued for its effect on the respiratory system and is used to treat cough, bronchitis and asthma. 4

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Oregano essential oil 

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Oregano essential oil (Origanum vulgare) contains a high level of a powerful compound called carvacrol. The authors of a 2014 study found that carvacrol is a useful antimicrobial agent that can fight many types of microbes. Therefore, this oil can help relieve the symptoms of respiratory infections.

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Thyme essential oil 

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Thyme essential oil also contains a high level of carvacrol. It can be a useful means of eliminating or protecting against viruses and bacteria.

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The herb thyme and its volatile oil have long been used to treat upper respiratory tract infections, bronchitis symptoms, parasitic infections, and many other health problems. It has an antibacterial effect on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and has antiviral (herpes simplex virus type I, human rhinoviruses and influenza viruses), antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic action. 5

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Essential oils of bergamot, nutmeg and cupressus 

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All essential oils of nutmeg (Myristica), bergamot (Citrus bergamia) and cupressus&nbsp; (Cupressus) contain camphene, a compound similar to camphor with anti-inflammatory action.

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When inhaled, camphene can have a cooling and refreshing effect. It also has antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from damage and protect against harmful microbes.

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Geranium essential oil 

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A review of studies published in Complementary Medicine Research reported that a geranium extract called Pelargonium sidoides is an effective herbal remedy for coughing. Geranium essential oil when inhaled can provide relief from breathing and persistent coughing.&nbsp;

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Add six drops of geranium essential oil to a carrier oil. Massage this diluted oil onto your throat and chest. This will help relieve a stuffy nose. You can also add 4-5 drops of this oil to boiling water and inhale the steam to relieve sore throat when you catch a cold.

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Cinnamon essential oil 

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The favorite aromatic spice has medicinal properties, with the authors of a 2017 study finding that cinnamon can protect against germs that cause respiratory problems.&nbsp;

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Add a few drops of cinnamon essential oil (Cinnamomum) to the diffuser and inhale it. Helps relieve cough and cold. You can also massage the oil on your chest or throat. This will help relieve congestion and coughing.&nbsp;

Tea-Tree-Essential-Oil

Tea Tree Essential Oil 

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Tea tree oil (Melaleuca) can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria that cause sinus infections and respiratory problems. Today, studies show that tea tree oil has antimicrobial activity, which gives it the ability to fight bacteria that lead to respiratory problems. 6

The essential oils of peppermint, eucalyptus, oregano, tea tree, rosemary and frankincense are some of the oils that have been shown to help keep your lungs and respiratory system in excellent condition. They contribute to this through antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial compounds reviewed in various studies. When used on the skin, it is important to mix essential oils with base oil, as they are highly concentrated. Others can be steamed and their fumes inhaled with a focus on relieving persistent cough, stuffy nose, and releasing your breathing.

Top 10 essential oils for respiratory infections this winter

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Бетина Цветкова

What-is-acne?

What is acne? 

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Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when the hair follicles under the skin become clogged. Sebum &mdash; an oil that keeps skin from drying out &mdash; and dead skin cells clog pores, leading to forming of lesions, commonly referred to as pimples. Most often, they appear on the face, but can also appear on the back, chest and shoulders. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/acne" target="_blank" data-ref="Acne" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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We distinguish several types of acne, including Acne vulgaris, Acne fulminans, Acne nodulo &ndash; cistica, Acne neonatorum, Acne contacta (contact acne), Acne medicamentosa, Acne excoriata. The reasons for it are diverse and according to them the treatment is different, but this is not planned for discussion in this topic.

Herbs-for-the-treatment-of-acne

Herbs for the treatment of acne 

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Manjista

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Manjista (Rubia Cordifolia) is a perennial herbaceous plant popular in Ayurvedic medicine. It is believed to keep the lymphatic system active, which is crucial for healthy skin. Research has shown that the mangyster has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiandrogenic abilities that can help prevent and treat acne. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.965390/full" target="_blank" data-ref="A comprehensive review of Rubia cordifolia L.: Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, and clinical applications" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

Neem

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Neem (Azadirachta indica) is another popular Ayurvedic herb. <a href="https://www.e-ijd.org/fulltext.asp" target="_blank" data-ref="Page Not Found: Indian Journal of Dermatology : Free full text articles from Indian J Dermatol" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;3]&nbsp; According to a 2010 study, neem oil contains compounds that exert various effects, including:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antibacterial</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antifungal (e.g. dermatophytes, Candida albicans, Aspergillus spp.)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antiviral (e.g. herpes simplex virus-1 and coxsackie B4 virus)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antiseptic</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antioxidant</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anti-inflammatory action</li></ul>Interesting are the limonoids in neem, such as azadirachtin, gedunin and nimbolide, which target multiple pathways in cancer through antiproliferative, proapoptotic, anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic effects, and tumor invasion inhibition. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/B9780128022153000070" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[Ref. 4]</a>&nbsp; In studies, the limonoids in this plant have been found to be an appropriate means of chemoprophylaxis and cancer therapy, but rigorous laboratory studies are needed.

Tea-tree

Tea tree 

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Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is an herb used to treat skin problems and wounds. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory abilities that can reduce the number of acne lesions. In one study of a topical gel containing 5 percent tea tree oil, it was compared to a topical cream containing 5 percent benzoyl peroxide. Both preparations reduce the number of inflamed and non-inflamed acne lesions. Although the action of tea tree oil takes longer, it leads to fewer side effects. These include dryness, itching, irritation and redness.

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Tea tree oil has antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular remedy for acne. Research has shown that tea tree is also effective for wound healing. <a href="https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/asp/jnn/2015/00000015/00000001/art00145;jsessionid=bau9pej5ikd8t.x-ic-live-03" target="_blank" data-ref="Hydrogels Containing Nanocapsules and Nanoemulsions of Tea Tree O...: Ingenta Connect" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;5]&nbsp;

Hamammelis

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Hamamelis (Hamamelis virginiana L.) contains astringent tannins that can relieve some types of acne by removing excess skin fat. It also has anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce skin redness. Hammamelis is often used alone or as a basis for homemade acne medications. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/11/6/1119" target="_blank" data-ref="Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Acne Effects of Hamamelis virginiana Bark in Human Keratinocytes" rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

Other-herbs-to-treat-acne

Other herbs to treat acne

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Other antiseptic, anti-inflammatory herbs that can help cure acne are:

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Calendula is commonly used in cosmetics and is known for its many benefits in dealing with skin problems, including acne and irritations.&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Chamomile (Matricaria) - Chamomile extract has natural healing and protective properties for the skin. It contains tannic acid, a substance commonly found in creams, sunscreens, and more. Chamomile has natural astringent and soothing properties.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lavender (Lavandula) - Lavender oil works to destroy bacteria and this can prevent the appearance of acne. Unclogs pores and reduces inflammation if applied to the skin. To use lavender oil for acne, dilute it in coconut oil or other base oil and apply it to the skin after washing your face.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) - With its powerful antibacterial qualities, rosemary essential oil helps fight the entry of acne bacteria into your pores. This quality, combined with the non-comedogenic properties of rosemary oil, means that acne has no chance, as the oil clears pores and forms a protective barrier against future skin disorders. &nbsp;<a href="https://brieflands.com/articles/jjm-56552.html" target="_blank" data-ref="Medicinal Plants for the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: A Review of Recent Evidences" rel="noopener">[ref. 7]</a>&nbsp;</li></ol>

How-to-use-herbs-to-treat-acne

How to use herbs to treat acne 

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Hammamelis can be applied directly to the skin using a cotton swab. You can also combine it with base oil and other herbal remedies for acne. You should not take orally or inject witch hazelly.

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You can use witch hazel as part of your routine to remove makeup and cleanse and refresh your skin. For best results, we recommend the following steps to create your own homemade potion:

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Add rind and hammamelis twigs to a large stainless steel saucepan.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cover with distilled water.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bring to a boil and simmer for at least 30 minutes.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Refrigerate overnight.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Strain the resulting liquid and pour into a glass jar.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Store in the refrigerator.</li></ol>Neem oil should be diluted with water or base oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, before application. Neem oil soap is a great way to improve skin care. Keep in mind that you may not like the smell.

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Manjista is often used in powder form and combined with other herbs such as neem. It is also used in products such as capsules and soaps.

Possible-side-effects-when-using-herbs

Possible side effects when using herbs 

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Possible side effects associated with most herbal remedies for acne include an allergic reaction and skin irritation. If you experience inflammation, itching or burning, discontinue use and consult your doctor.

Some natural remedies can limit acne&nbsp; by preventing oily skin, killing bacteria, and providing antioxidants. Natural herbal remedies that reduce inflammation or have an antibacterial effect are neem, tea tree, witch hazel and others. They should be used in combination with base oil and only externally on the skin.

Can you use herbs to treat acne? Here's the answer!

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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.

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.