The direct evidence and mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine treatment of COVID-19
Xuedong An, YueHong Zhang, Liyun Duan, De Jin, Shenghui Zhao, RongRong Zhou, Yingying Duan, Fengmei Lian, Xiaolin Tong · Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy · 2021 May
DOI 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111267
Objective
This study aims to provide a reference for the rational use of TCM in the treatment of COVID-19.
Conclusions
Presently, there is good evidence that TCM can effectively alleviate the symptoms of patients with suspected and confirmed COVID-19, delay the progression from mild and moderate to severe and critical disease, and reduce severe and critical all-cause mortality. The role of TCM is related to affecting the transcription, replication, and binding of SARS-CoV-2 to the host and attenuating the cytokine storm and weak immunity in patients with COVID-19.
Critical Appraisal
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Insights
Traditional Chinese medicine could reduce the all-cause mortality in COVID-19 patients, inhibit virus replication and transcription, and attenuate the cytokine storm and immune deficiency caused by the SARS-CoV-2.
Presently, there is good evidence that TCM can effectively alleviate the symptoms of patients with suspected and confirmed COVID-19, delay the progression from mild and moderate to severe and critical disease, and reduce severe and critical all-cause mortality. The role of TCM is related to affecting the transcription, replication, and binding of SARS-CoV-2 to the host and attenuating the cytokine storm and weak immunity in patients with COVID-19.
Related insights
- The Jing Si Herbal Drink, composed of various antiviral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory herbs, has been confirmed as potentially effective in treating COVID-19 symptoms.
- Honey, owing to its bioactive compounds, demonstrates potential in treating COVID-19 symptoms by reducing oxidative damage and enhancing the immune system.
- High doses of vitamin C, vitamin D supplementation and natural honey can potentially decrease fatalities and support the management of COVID-19.
- Pomegranate juice, due to its unique bioactive compounds, could potentially alleviate complications related to SARS-CoV-2 infections, especially in patients with pre-existing chronic diseases.
- Bee honey and propolis could have potential beneficial effects as supporting treatments for COVID-19, enhancing immunity and inhibiting viral activity.
- All schools of Tai Chi chuan can improve the mental health of the elderly.
- Pomegranate juice consumption appears to somewhat enhance inflammatory status and complete blood count in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
- Drinking pomegranate juice and sumac can help reduce symptoms in outpatients diagnosed with COVID-19, alongside standard treatment.
