Chinese herbal medicine treatment in five mild COVID-19 cases: South African case studies

Abstract

In December 2019, the initial reports of a novel coronavirus epidemic emerged in China. Despite South Africa demonstrating determined political efforts to handle the outbreak within its borders, there is currently no established effective treatment for mild cases. The sharing of clinical experiences could prove beneficial in managing emerging infectious diseases. Given the successful management of COVID-19 in China, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) might present a potential solution for mild cases in South Africa, potentially lowering the likelihood of mild cases progressing to severe stages and expediting the recovery process. Data were retrieved from an identified clinic in South Africa between 12 June 2020 to 26 June 2020. All cases were consulted under the regulation of telehealth and telemedicine by using online video consultation. It can be inferred that TCM is efficacious in hastening the recovery process and diminishing the instances of mild cases progressing to severe stages. The utilisation of Chinese herbal medicine proves applicable in treating mild cases of COVID-19, irrespective of variations in geography, climate, and racial factors. This study was constrained in its examination of patients from a single clinic, lacking a comparative aspect. It is advisable that future studies be conducted in more extensive settings to provide a broader perspective.