Anatolian medicinal plants as potential antiviral agents: bridging traditional knowledge and modern science in the fight against COVID-19 and related viral infections

OpenAlex İngilizce

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of the worldwide coronavirus illness 2019 (COVID-19), often known as the coronavirus pandemic. Since December 2020 however, COVID-19 vaccines have been extensively administered in numerous countries. In addition to new antiviral medications, the treatment regimen also encompasses symptom management. In spite of sustained research efforts, the outbreak remains uncontrolled, with affected patients still lacking proper treatment. Consequently, this review serves as a valuable asset for researchers and practitioners aiming to delve into the yet unexplored potential of Anatolian flora in the fight against COVID-19 and other viral infections. Numerous medicinal plants in this region, such as thyme, sage, cannabis, oregano, liquorice root, and Origanum sp., exhibit bioactive compounds with proven antiviral properties. This can be attributed to the rich legacy of traditional Anatolian medicine (TAM), which has significantly influenced modern medicine, and thus, the profusion of medicinal plants native to Anatolia hold promise for antiviral drug development, making this review essential for researchers and practitioners.