Revisiting the Potential of Ayurvedic Medicinal Herbs, Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Giloy (Tinospora cordiofolia) for Prevention against COVID-19

Abstract

Current pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has resulted in huge global mortality with daily increment of cases. Though at present different vaccines are available but complete vaccination at the country level needs subsequent time interval. In present condition of stress and fear, bioactive compounds from different medicinal plants are screened using computational approaches to be used as a potential drug candidate. These in silico approaches have found few phyto-compounds that can be used against therapeutic protein targets of SARS-CoV-2. These natural compounds might have fewer side effects compared to chemotherapeutic agents that are re purposed in this pandemic situation. Though convincing results are obtained from in silico approaches but it warrants further studies to be marketed as a recommended drug. Foreseeing the current pandemic and positive computational results on natural products, these can be considered for enhancing immunity and prevention. Decoction of therapeutically beneficial medicinal plants like neem (Azadirachta indica) and giloy (Tinospora cordiofolia) can be recommended due to easy availability, cost effective nature and easy implementation at community level. These natural products possess anti- inflammatory, antipyretic, fungicidal and antiseptic properties which can prevent from COVID infection and post-COVID complications, including attack from opportunistic pathogens.