Glycyrrhiza Glabra(an unexplored corona virus)

What is Glycyrrhiza Glabra(an unexplored corona virus)?

Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Yastimadhu in Sanskrit & Mulethi in Hindi)

The threat of corona virus is becoming a pandemic. In this light, the research paper that was published in 2003 in lancet medical journal on an active antiviral compound that was studied during SARS outbreak caused by corona virus.

Virus, unlike bacteria is still a challenge and threat to the mankind. Other than the prevention and hygienic measures, there is nothing much we can do. In such a scenario, this research paper gives a ray of hope to explore the possibility of developing a cure for this deadly virus.

Glycyrrhizhin

Among the many antiviral components that was taken to study, glycyrrhizhin, an active component obtained from the roots of liquorice is considered as the most effective drug. It works as antiviral by inhibiting the adsorption, penetration of virus (early stages of replicative cycle ) and replication of virus.

Mechanism of action

The clear mechanism of action remains unclear. The glycyrrhizhin affects the cellular signaling pathways. It produces nitrous oxide in macrophages of the cells. This nitrous oxide inhibits the replication of several viruses (ex:encephalitis virus etc..) .

Cytopathological study

The research was done in Frankfurt university, Germany with the serum samples obtained from patients with SARS. The effect of glycyrrhizhin on replication of SARS -CV in vero cells. When 1000mg /l of glycyrrhizhin was administered, the expression of viral antigen was lowered. In 4000mg/l, the replication of virus was completely blocked.

With this light, the component was administered for HIV and chronic hepatitis c virus. Though it acts as an efficient antiviral component, long term use had side effects like increased blood pressure and hypokalaemia. Since using as an antiviral against SARS is short term, the side effects can be effectively managed with proper monitoring.

This is just a ray of hope to explore the possibility of developing an effective antiviral drug for the deadly corona virus that is taking the lives of hundreds.

Let there be more hope for good health

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On 11th March 2020 SARS-CoV-2 was declared a pandemic, a virus predominantly affecting the respiratory system. Within months there were also reports of neurological disturbances such as lack of smell and taste, dizziness and headaches. As the virus continued to spread from Wuhan through to neighboring countries and continents there was an increasing prevalence and severity of these neurological and psychiatric cases.