Herbs for Viral Respiratory Infections

Abstract

Herbal medicines have long been used to treat and prevent viral respiratory infections (VRI). Here, a broad survey of these herbs is provided. The effects and benefits of a wide array of antiviral herbs are discussed in depth. The benefit of most of these herbs having built-in immune-stimulating and inflammation-modulating effects means that they can help prevent immune overreaction (“cytokine storm”) to VRI while still helping the immune system cope better with the infections. The scientific basis supporting these contentions are discussed. Major herbs with clinical trial evidence that they help resolve VRI reviewed in detail include Sambucus nigra (black elder) fruit, BNO 1016 (Sinupret®) formula, Andrographis paniculata (kalmegh), Pelargonium sidoides (African geranium), má huáng tāng (maō-tō, ephedra decoction), and antiwei formula. The failure of research on Echinacea angustifolia (narrow-leaved purple coneflower), particularly by using far too low of doses, is reviewed. An individualized approach to formulating for VRI patients is presented, followed by a review of the evidence that various herbs, notably Panax ginseng (Asian red ginseng), Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng), Camellia sinensis (green tea), and Allium sativum (garlic), can prevent VRI.