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Medicinal Plants against SARS-CoV: Comparison
Please note this is a comparison between Version 1 by ARIF SIDDIQUI and Version 6 by Nora Tang.

SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) is in focus over all known human diseases, because it is destroying the world economy and social life, with increased mortality rate each day. To date, there is no specific medicine or vaccine available against this pandemic disease. However, the presence of medicinal plants and their bioactive molecules with antiviral properties might also be a successful strategy in order to develop therapeutic agents against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The identification of novel antiviral compounds is of critical significance, and medicinal plant based natural compounds are a good source for such discoveries. In depth search and analysis revealed several medicinal plants with excellent efficacy against SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV, which are well-known to act on ACE-2 receptor, 3CLpro and other viral protein targets. It has consolidated the data of several medicinal plants and their natural bioactive metabolites, which have promising antiviral activities against coronaviruses with detailed modes of action/mechanism. It is concluded that this topics will be useful for researchers worldwide and highly recommended for the development of naturally safe and effective therapeutic drugs/agents against SARS-CoV-2 infection, which might be used in therapeutic protocols alone or in combination with chemically synthetized drugs.

  • SARS-CoV
  • COVID-19
  • coronavirus
  • medicinal plant
  • phytomedicine
  • ethnobotany
  • antiviral
  • natural products
  • bioactive compounds

Note:All the information in this draft can be edited by authors. And the entry will be online only after authors edit and submit it.

1. Iintroduction 

There are various medicinal plants which are known to have an inhibitory effect against SARS-CoV, HCoV-22E9, MERS-CoV and other viral infections. They were chosen specifically due to their mode of action and potency, and have been used and researched with ethnobotanical evidence against coronaviruses or other viruses (HIV, Influenza, etc.). Coronaviruses belong to positive sense RNA viruses and mostly use the ACE-2 (Angiotensin-converting enzyme-2) receptor, 3CLpro (3 Chymotrypsin-like protease), PLpro (Papain-like protease), RdRp (RNA-dependent RNA polymerase) enzyme and other known factors to gain entry into the human cell and complete the life cycle. Thereby, all these selected plants have been tested by various researchers globally to act on these specific target proteins and receptors, and, moreover, inhibit RNA replication in the other viruses too. This was the chief rationale in selecting these plants, which are described in detail below with their mode of action, which may also possibly be considered as a therapeutic choice against SARS-CoV-2. This presentation is designed in order to open new pathways towards the management of highly contagious diseases with the help of natural compounds.

2. Bupleurum Species

Bupleurum plant species are extensively dispersed in the northern hemisphere and are used as one of the oldest phytomedicines in China. Many reports have identified the activity of this herbal plant in the treatment of HCoV-22E9 and other viral infections [1][2]. Generally,

plant species are extensively dispersed in the northern hemisphere and are used as one of the oldest phytomedicines in China. Many reports have identified the activity of this herbal plant in the treatment of HCoV-22E9 and other viral infections [32,33]. Generally,

Radix bupleuri

(

R. bupleuri

) is derived from the dried roots of

Bupleurum species and used for the treatment of various diseases [3]. It has great pharmacologically significant activities, the main ones reported in the literature being: antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, neuro-modulation and immunoregulation [3][4]. Approximately 7% of naturally occurring saikosaponins (triterpene saponin glycosides) are present in

species and used for the treatment of various diseases [34]. It has great pharmacologically significant activities, the main ones reported in the literature being: antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, neuro-modulation and immunoregulation [34,35]. Approximately 7% of naturally occurring saikosaponins (triterpene saponin glycosides) are present in

R. bupleuri, which is the main component of this medicinal plant with potent effects. Four types of saikosaponins (SS) are found; SSa, SSb2, SSc and SSd, which are responsible for the most pharmacological activities in this medicinal plant [5]. The SSa, SSb2 and SSd have potential to inhibit the effects against coronavirus 229E, SARS-CoV and influenza A virus [4]. Moreover, the mechanism of action of these SS employing antiviral activity interrupts the early stage of viral replication inside the host cells [4]. In addition, these SS also attenuate pro-inflammatory cytokines production, inhibiting viral replication through down-regulating NF-kB signaling, caspase 3-dependent virus ribonucleoprotein nuclear export, lung neutrophil and monocytes recruitment in an experimental in vivo mice model [4].

which is the main component of this medicinal plant with potent effects. Four types of saikosaponins (SS) are found; SSa, SSb2, SSc and SSd, which are responsible for the most pharmacological activities in this medicinal plant [36]. The SSa, SSb2 and SSd have potential to inhibit the effects against coronavirus 229E, SARS-CoV and influenza A virus [35]. Moreover, the mechanism of action of these SS employing antiviral activity interrupts the early stage of viral replication inside the host cells [35]. In addition, these SS also attenuate pro-inflammatory cytokines production, inhibiting viral replication through down-regulating NF-kB signaling, caspase 3-dependent virus ribonucleoprotein nuclear export, lung neutrophil and monocytes recruitment in an experimental in vivo mice model [35].

3. Lycoris radiate (L’Hér.) Herb.

Lycoris radiata

(

L. radiata

) belongs to the

Amaryllidaceae family and originally it was found in China, Korea, Japan and Nepal [6]. This medicinal plant has wide-ranging biological activities comprising: antiviral, anticancer [6], anti-malarial [7], anti-inflammatory [8] and induction of nausea and emesis [9]. Additionally, and most importantly,

family and originally it was found in China, Korea, Japan and Nepal [37]. This medicinal plant has wide-ranging biological activities comprising: antiviral, anticancer [37], anti-malarial [38], anti-inflammatory [39] and induction of nausea and emesis [40]. Additionally, and most importantly,

L. radiata has been known to have antiviral effects on SARS-CoV [10][11], poliovirus, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), measles virus, herpes simplex virus and coxsackie virus [11][12]. Its potent bioactive compound is lycorine, which is extracted from the flower and stem cortex of

 has been known to have antiviral effects on SARS-CoV [41,42], poliovirus, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), measles virus, herpes simplex virus and coxsackie virus [42,43]. Its potent bioactive compound is lycorine, which is extracted from the flower and stem cortex of

L. radiata plants. Currently, this plant is in use for the treatment of various diseases due to its broad-spectrum biological activities. It has also been recommended as a promising medicinal plant for the development of potential drugs against SARS-CoV infection [11][12]. The antiviral mechanism of action of this plant is by inhibiting virus replication in the cells through inhibiting autophagy [12]. Moreover, JNK/MAPK signaling pathway is closely connected to autophagy, and through this signaling pathway, the plant extract inhibits the process of autophagy due to reduced JNK phosphorylation induced by viral replication [12][13].

 plants. Currently, this plant is in use for the treatment of various diseases due to its broad-spectrum biological activities. It has also been recommended as a promising medicinal plant for the development of potential drugs against SARS-CoV infection [42,43]. The antiviral mechanism of action of this plant is by inhibiting virus replication in the cells through inhibiting autophagy [43]. Moreover, JNK/MAPK signaling pathway is closely connected to autophagy, and through this signaling pathway, the plant extract inhibits the process of autophagy due to reduced JNK phosphorylation induced by viral replication [43,44].

4. Artemisia annua L.

This Chinese medicinal plant has been used for a long time to treat various diseases such as bronchitis and hemorrhoids, and is potentially effective for its anti-malarial, antiviral, anticancer, etc., properties [14][15][16]. However,

This Chinese medicinal plant has been used for a long time to treat various diseases such as bronchitis and hemorrhoids, and is potentially effective for its anti-malarial, antiviral, anticancer, etc., properties [45,46,47]. However,

Artemisia annua

(

A. annua) has been known to possess antiviral activity and currently is in use for the treatment of Poliovirus, HIV, RSV, HSV1, hepatitis C, type 2 dengue virus and human cytomegalovirus [17][18].

) has been known to possess antiviral activity and currently is in use for the treatment of Poliovirus, HIV, RSV, HSV1, hepatitis C, type 2 dengue virus and human cytomegalovirus [29,48].

A. annua contains quercetine, flavonoid, polyphenols, triterpenes, sterols, saponins, polysaccharides, dicaffeoylquinic acid and other molecules [18]. Due to the presence of these molecules,

contains quercetine, flavonoid, polyphenols, triterpenes, sterols, saponins, polysaccharides, dicaffeoylquinic acid and other molecules [48]. Due to the presence of these molecules,

A. annua extracts (whole plant) have shown an important role, being assigned with immunomodulator, antiviral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, these compounds/molecules have been known to inhibit the enzyme activity of 3CLPro [19][20]. Previously, this medicinal plant has been used to treat SARS-CoV and MERS infections [20], and is currently being used against novel SARS-CoV-2 infection [19]. The mechanism of action of

extracts (whole plant) have shown an important role, being assigned with immunomodulator, antiviral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, these compounds/molecules have been known to inhibit the enzyme activity of 3CLPro [49,50]. Previously, this medicinal plant has been used to treat SARS-CoV and MERS infections [50], and is currently being used against novel SARS-CoV-2 infection [49]. The mechanism of action of

A. annua

is to inhibit the enzymatic activity of 3CLPro, which is also produced by SARS-CoV-2, and increase the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), IL-6, TNF-a, IFN-γ and enhance the genesis of CD4

+

and CD8

+ T cell populations [19][20][21].

T cell populations [49,50,51].

5. Pyrrosia lingua (Thunb.) Farw.

Pyrrosia lingua

(

P. lingua

) belongs to the

Polypodiaceae family and mostly occurs in China, Japan, Korea and other Asian regions [22].

family and mostly occurs in China, Japan, Korea and other Asian regions [52].

P. lingua is known for its antiviral, antioxidant, antibacterial and anticancer activities; it even stops the formation of urinary calculi [22][23]. Furthermore, it contains several bioactive components, such as flavonoids, chlorogenic acid, mangiferin, isomangiferin, astragalin and trifolin [24]. The extract of

is known for its antiviral, antioxidant, antibacterial and anticancer activities; it even stops the formation of urinary calculi [52,53]. Furthermore, it contains several bioactive components, such as flavonoids, chlorogenic acid, mangiferin, isomangiferin, astragalin and trifolin [54]. The extract of

P. lingua leaves has been used by many researchers for the treatment of HIV, SARS and other viral infections [20][22][23]. In the case of SARS-CoV-1, this plant has shown the ability to inhibit viral infection, but the mechanism of action is still not clear [18][20].

leaves has been used by many researchers for the treatment of HIV, SARS and other viral infections [50,52,53]. In the case of SARS-CoV-1, this plant has shown the ability to inhibit viral infection, but the mechanism of action is still not clear [48,50].

6. Isatis indigotica Fortune ex Lindl.

Isatis indigotica

(

I. indigotica

) is a very old Chinese herbal plant belonging to the

Cruciferae family. It is mostly found in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and other regions of Asia [25]. According to Lin et al.,

family. It is mostly found in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and other regions of Asia [55]. According to Lin et al.,

I. indigotica has the potential to inhibit/block SARS-CoV-1 entry and replication in its host [18]. However, the research group used

has the potential to inhibit/block SARS-CoV-1 entry and replication in its host [48]. However, the research group used

Radix isatidis

(dried root) of

I. indigotica for extracting potent compounds for the treatment of SARS-CoV-1-infected patients. Furthermore, its root contains indirubin, indican, indigo, sinigrin, β-sitosterol, hesperetin, aloe-emodin and many more bioactive compounds [25][26]. According to one in vitro study, all these extracted compounds were used against SARS-CoV-1 infection, and it was found that indigo, sinigrin, aloe-emodin and hesperetin were able to inhibit the virus entry and replication by inhibiting the SARS-CoV-1 3CLpro [27]. We know that coronavirus 3CLpro mediates the proteolytic processing of replicase polypeptides into the functional proteins and plays a key role in viral replication [28]. Therefore,

for extracting potent compounds for the treatment of SARS-CoV-1-infected patients. Furthermore, its root contains indirubin, indican, indigo, sinigrin, β-sitosterol, hesperetin, aloe-emodin and many more bioactive compounds [55,56]. According to one in vitro study, all these extracted compounds were used against SARS-CoV-1 infection, and it was found that indigo, sinigrin, aloe-emodin and hesperetin were able to inhibit the virus entry and replication by inhibiting the SARS-CoV-1 3CLpro [57]. We know that coronavirus 3CLpro mediates the proteolytic processing of replicase polypeptides into the functional proteins and plays a key role in viral replication [58]. Therefore,

I. indigotica

can also be considered as a potential therapeutic choice against SARS-CoV-2.

7. Torreya nucifera L.

This plant is mostly found in snowy areas near the Sea of Jeju Island in Korea, and is considered as a traditional medicinal plant. Its leaves are mostly used for the treatment of stomachache, hemorrhoids and rheumatoid arthritis [29][30]. During SARS-CoV-1 infection, Young Bae Ryu et al. used

This plant is mostly found in snowy areas near the Sea of Jeju Island in Korea, and is considered as a traditional medicinal plant. Its leaves are mostly used for the treatment of stomachache, hemorrhoids and rheumatoid arthritis [59,60]. During SARS-CoV-1 infection, Young Bae Ryu et al. used

Torreya nucifera

(

T. nucifera) plant leaves for in vitro experiments, and the results showed a potential inhibitory effect [18][31]. Ryu et al. isolated 12 phytochemical compounds from the ethanol extract of the

) plant leaves for in vitro experiments, and the results showed a potential inhibitory effect [48,61]. Ryu et al. isolated 12 phytochemical compounds from the ethanol extract of the

T. nucifera leaves. Only the biflavonoid amentoflavone showed efficacy against SARS-CoV-1 [31]. This biflavonoid of

leaves. Only the biflavonoid amentoflavone showed efficacy against SARS-CoV-1 [61]. This biflavonoid of

T. nucifera has the potential to block the activity of 3CLpro of the coronavirus and can inhibit the viral replication [31].

has the potential to block the activity of 3CLpro of the coronavirus and can inhibit the viral replication [61].

8. Houttuynia cordata Thunb.

This Southeast Asian plant belongs to the family of

Saururaceae

, which is traditionally used for the treatment of lung disorders such as cough, lung abscess, phlegm, and dyspnea.

Houttuynia cordata Thorn (HCT) is a Chinese herbal plant well-known for its potent effects in the treatment of pneumonia, refractory hemoptysis, and SARS-CoV-1 infection [32][33]. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antioxidant and anticancer properties [32]. The bioactive compounds present in HCT are comprised of rutin, hyperin, isoquercitrin, quercetin, afzelin, reyoutrin, kalium sulfuricum, cordarine, decanoyl acetaldehyde, lauric aldehyde, myrcene, α-pinene, methyl nonyl ketone, d-limonene, linoleic acid, aspartic acid, palmitic acid, water-soluble polysaccharides, amino acids, vitamins, manganese, potassium, zinc, iron and copper [34][35][36]. During the SARS-CoV-1 infection, the leaves of this Chinese medicinal plant were used to treat patients and showed good efficacy against SARS-CoV-1 [18][27]. Lau et al. conducted one experiment using HCT against SARS-CoV-1. Results showed that HCT can inhibit SARS-CoV-1 activity including an immunomodulatory effect [33]. However, the mode of action of HCT is to inhibit the 3CLpro activity of SARS-CoV-1 and obstruct the activity of RdRp [33]. Hence, it can block the entry of the virus and impede viral replication [33]. This inhibitory mechanism makes HCT a good choice to be used against SARS-CoV-2 infections.

Thorn (HCT) is a Chinese herbal plant well-known for its potent effects in the treatment of pneumonia, refractory hemoptysis, and SARS-CoV-1 infection [62,63]. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antioxidant and anticancer properties [62]. The bioactive compounds present in HCT are comprised of rutin, hyperin, isoquercitrin, quercetin, afzelin, reyoutrin, kalium sulfuricum, cordarine, decanoyl acetaldehyde, lauric aldehyde, myrcene, α-pinene, methyl nonyl ketone, d-limonene, linoleic acid, aspartic acid, palmitic acid, water-soluble polysaccharides, amino acids, vitamins, manganese, potassium, zinc, iron and copper [64,65,66]. During the SARS-CoV-1 infection, the leaves of this Chinese medicinal plant were used to treat patients and showed good efficacy against SARS-CoV-1 [48,57]. Lau et al. conducted one experiment using HCT against SARS-CoV-1. Results showed that HCT can inhibit SARS-CoV-1 activity including an immunomodulatory effect [63]. However, the mode of action of HCT is to inhibit the 3CLpro activity of SARS-CoV-1 and obstruct the activity of RdRp [63]. Hence, it can block the entry of the virus and impede viral replication [63]. This inhibitory mechanism makes HCT a good choice to be used against SARS-CoV-2 infections.

9.

9.

Lindera aggregate

(Sims) Kosterm.

Lindera aggregate(

(

L. aggregate

) is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant belonging to the

Lauraceae family and mostly found in China and Japan [37]. The root of this plant is mostly used to treat chest pain, inflammation, indigestion, cold hernia and other diseases. It contains several bioactive components, such as flavonoids, isoquinoline alkaloids, sesquiterpene lactones and tannins [38][39]. Moreover,

family and mostly found in China and Japan [67]. The root of this plant is mostly used to treat chest pain, inflammation, indigestion, cold hernia and other diseases. It contains several bioactive components, such as flavonoids, isoquinoline alkaloids, sesquiterpene lactones and tannins [68,69]. Moreover,

L. aggregate has also showed other biological activities such as antiviral, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anti-diabetic activities [18][39][40].

has also showed other biological activities such as antiviral, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anti-diabetic activities [48,69,70].

L. aggregate leaves can also be used to drink as tea, due to their protective effect against oxidative stress [40]. In 2005, Shi-you Li et al. investigated the effect and efficacy of

leaves can also be used to drink as tea, due to their protective effect against oxidative stress [70]. In 2005, Shi-you Li et al. investigated the effect and efficacy of

L. aggregate roots against SARS-CoV-1 [20]. An in vitro study showed that

roots against SARS-CoV-1 [50]. An in vitro study showed that

L. aggregate

is able to inhibit SARS-CoV-1 with EC

50 value of 88.2 ± 7.7 µg/mL [20]. However, the mode of action is still not clear, but it was suggested that

value of 88.2 ± 7.7 µg/mL [50]. However, the mode of action is still not clear, but it was suggested that

L. aggregate roots can possibly inhibit the viral replication and block the entry of virus [20].

10. Rheum palmatum L.

This herbal plant belongs to the family of Polygonaceae. It is mostly found in mountainous regions with high elevations, such as the Sichuan, Gansu and Shaanxi regions of China [41]. It is effectively used as a laxative or astringent for the treatment of stomachache, hemorrhoids, liver bile disease or gastroenteritis [42]. It contains some potent bioactive compounds including emodin, physcion, chrysophanol, rhein and aloe-emodin [43][44]. Known biological activities are antiviral, anti-pyretic, anti-neoplastic, anti-spasmolytic, antibacterial, laxative, hemostatic and anti-spasmodic [45][41][44][46]. It was also used against SARS-CoV-1 infection, due to its potential efficacy for acting on the ACE-2 receptor, leading to blockage of viral entry into cells and replication of the CoVs [47][43]. An in vitro study conducted by Ho et al. 2007 showed the potential of Radix et Rhizoma Rhei (root tubers of

roots can possibly inhibit the viral replication and block the entry of virus [50].
 

10.

Rheum palmatum L.) in blocking the entry of SARS-CoV-1 to inhibition sites such as the ACE-2 receptor [47].

Furthermore, the major active component of this plant is emodin, which is responsible for blocking the binding of SARS-CoV-1 S protein to ACE-2 receptor [47][43]. Therefore, the use of emodin extracted from Radix et Rhizoma Rhei can be considered for the possible therapeutic management of COVID-19. This will possibly provide us with new insight into therapy against SARS-CoV-2.

11. Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.

L.



This herbal plant belongs to the family of Polygonaceae. It is mostly foum nd in mountainous regions

with high elevations, such as the Sichuan, Gansu and Shaanxi regions of China [81]. It is effectively

used as a laxative or astringent for the treatment of stomachache, hemorrhoids, liver bile disease

or gastroenteritis [243]. It contains some potent bioactive compounds incliuding emodin, physcion,

chrysophanol, rhein and aloe-emodin [80,82]. Known biological activities are antiviral, anti-pyretic,

anti-neoplastic, anti-spasmolytic, antibacterial, laxative, hemostatic and anti-spasmodic [79,81,82,244].

It was also used against SARS-CoV-1 infection, due to its potentialor efficacy for acting on the ACE-2

receptor, leading to blockage of viral entry into cells and replication of the CoVs [78,80]. An in vitro

study conducted by Ho et al. 2007 showed the potential of Radix et Rhizom a Rhei (root tubers of Rheum

palmatum L.) in blocking the entry of SARS-CoV-1 to inhibition sites such as the ACE-2 receptor [78].

Furthermore, the major active component of this plant is emodin, which is responsible for blocking the

binding of SARS-CoV-1 S protein to ACE-2 receptor [78,80]. Therefore, the unse of emodin extracted

from Radix et Rhizoma Rhei can be considered for the possible therapeutic management of COVID-19.

This will possibly provide us with new insight into therapy against SARS-CoV-2.



11. Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.



Polygonum mulitflorum Thunb (PMT) is mostly found in China, Korea and Japan, belonging

to Polygonaceae family [48][245]. Radix Polygoni multiflori (root tubers of PMT) is mostly used

in treating many kinds of diseases, such as rubella, scrofula, waist and knee pain, paralysis,

vaginal discharge, hypercholesterolemia (liver and kidney), malaria, and various other diseases,

possessing neuro-protective, antioxidation, immunomodulation, anti-hyperlipidemia, anticancer,

heap-toprotection, anti-inflammation, and anti-CoV functions [49][50][51][86,87,246]. The potent bioactive

compounds present in PMT which are responsible for the therapeutic effects against various diseases

are listed in Table 1 [52][53][54][55][84,85,88,247]. However, Ho et al. found that emodin is the most effective

compound against SARS-CoV-1. The data were published to show the potential and efficacy of PMT in

blocking the entry of SARS-CoV-1 by acting on the ACE-2 receptor [47][78]. The mode of action of PMT is

similar to Rheum palmatum L and the major active constituent is found to be emodin in both plants.



Therefore, it is highly recommended to focus on emodin for possible and effective management of

SARS-CoV-2 infection, combination with other therapeutic approaches.

12. Cerasus avium (L.) Moench.



12. Cerasus avium (L.) Moench.



This Persian medicinal plant belongs to the Rosaceae family and is mostly used as an antioxidant,

antimicrobial and antiviral [56][93]. Its stem contains polyphenols, carotenoids, vitamins, minerals and

many other bioactive components [57][58][90,248]. However, this plant has strong potential to act on the

ACE-2 receptor and block the further processing of the viruses [47][59][60][78,92,94]. According to Ziai et al.’s

2009 in vitro study, this plant showed very good potential to inhibit or completely block the ACE-2

receptor [60][94]. Subsequently, Heidary et al., 2020 recently suggested that this plant has good potency

against SARS-CoV-2 and must be used for the treatment of its infection [61][91].




13.  Alcea digitata (Boiss.) Alef.



Alcea digitata (A. digitate) is a Persian medicinal plant belonging to the Malvaceae family

with antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-tussive, expectorant and laxative

therapeutic effects [62][63][96,97]. The flowers of A. digitata have been used for lung and respiratory

disorders, head and neck cancer, and lubrication of the throat [63][97]. According to one published

report [62][96], A. digitata is known to have good potential to block or inhibit the ACE-2 receptor. Recently,

Heidary et al., 2020 suggested that A. digitata can possibly show good inhibitory effects against

SARS-CoV-2 infection [61][91].



14. Citrus aurantium L.



Citrus aurantium (C. aurantium) belongs to the family of Rutaceae and is generally known as

bitter orange [64][249]. This plant is known to have many essential components with biological

effects [65][66][100,101], such as phenolics (flavanone glycosides, hydroxycinnamic acids), vitamin C,

and carotenoids [99,249,250]. However, C. aurantium fruit extract is manly used for the treatment

of anxiety, lung related diseases, obesity, gastrointestinal disorders and prostate cancer [64][67][249,251], buts

has potential to inhibit or block the ACE-2 receptor. Some in vitro studies have shown its efficacy in

inhibiting ACE-2 receptors [61][91].

15. Rubia tinctorum L.

Rubia



15. Rubia tinctorum L.

Rubia tinctorum tinctorum (R. tinctorum) is mostly found in Southern Europe, Western Asia and North Africa

and belongs to the family of Rubiaceae [68][252]. R.R. tinctorum tinctorum is mostly used to treat kidney and bladder

stones, and menstrual and urinary disorders [69][70][104,253]. Furthermore, the root of R.R. tinctorum tinctorum coontains

red color due to the presence of anthraquinone, alizarin and pseudopurpurin, which is also used

for dyeing purposes [71][103]. On the other hand, R.R. tinctorum tinctorum has shown potential to inhibit or block

the ACE-2 receptor [61][91]. in vitro studies revealed the efficient use of R. R. tinctorum tinctorum to inhibit ACE-2

receptors [61][91].



16. Allium sativum L.



The common name of Allium sativum (A. sativum) is garlic, and it belongs to the Amaryllidaceae

family. A. sativum use for human welfare has been reported for thousands of years in the

form of a spice [72][108]. It is an aromatic herbaceous plant and is consumed worldwide as a

food as well as a remedy for different diseases [72][108]. A. sativum is reported to have numerous

biological properties, such as antibacterial, antifungal, anti-carcinogenic, antioxidant, anti-diabetic,

reno-protective, anti-atherosclerotic, and anti-hypertensive effects. Cloves of this traditional

medicinal plant contain several potent components, such as alliin, allicin, ajoenes, vinyldithiins,

and flavonoids [72][73][74][75][76][108,109,254–256], due to which it is mostly used for treatment of various

disorders [77][78][72][73][79][106–109,257]. On the other hand, an in vitro study conducted by Ziai et al., 2009 on

A. sativum and its potential efficacy to inhibit the ACE-2 receptor reported some effective results [60][94].



17. Quercus infectoria G. Olivier.



Quercus infectoria (Q. infectoria) is commonly known as gall oak and belongs to the family of

Fagaceae [80][112]. This medicinal plant is traditionally used for the treatment of diarrhea, menorrhagia,

dysentery, gonorrhea, tonsillitis, impetigo and internal hemorrhages [80][81][112,258]. Bioactive constituents

of Q. infectoria gall extract include phenolic compounds (catechol, p -hydroxybenzoic acid, caffeine,

catechin, pyrogallol, e-vanillic acid, 3-hydroxytyrosol cinnamic, p-coumaric, gallic acids and resveratrol),

flavonoids (naringin, rutin, 7-hydrohyflavone and hispertin) [82][83][84][111,259,260] with biological activities

such as antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-parasitic,

anti-venom, etc. [80][85][86][112,114,261]. Q. infectoria has also shown strong potential to completely block the

ACE-2 receptors due to the presence of many potent and tannin active components in vitro [87][113].

Similarly, this medicinal plant can also be considered for combinational therapeutic approaches in

controlling the COVID-19 pandemic directly or indirectly.



18. Onopordum acanthium L.



Onopordum acanthium (O. acanthium) basically belongs to a family of Asteraceae and is commonly

known as Scotch thistle [88][118]. It is found all over the world [89][262]. The biological activities of O. acanthium

include antiviral, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Extracts from the leaf, flower,

stem and root of O. acanthium are also used as cardiotonic agents. O. acanthium contains many bioactive

components, such as flavonoids, triterpenoids, lignans, phenylpropanoids, sesquiterpene lactones,

and sterols [90][91][89][116,117,262]. Moreover, O. acanthium has shown efficacy to completely inhibit the activity

of ACE-2 due to the presence of tannin bioactive components, as demonstrated by Sharifi et al., 2013 in

his in vitro study. This makes it a considerable choice to test against SARS-CoV-2.



19. Berberis integerrima Bunge.



Berberis integerrima (B. integerrima) belongs to the family of Berberidaceae, with different parts

of the plant showing different colors [92][121]. It is mostly found in Iran and contains many types of

alkaloids [93][122]. Bioactive components extracted from the root of B. integerrima include berbamine,

berberuin, palmatine, oxyacanthine, malic acid, ascorbic acid, caffeic acid, ursolic acid, coumarin,

beta-carotene and tannin [94][93][120,122]. B. integerrima possesses many bioactive properties, such as antiviral,

anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anticancer, and antioxidant effects, as well

as being a liver protective agent [94][92][93][120–122]. Moreover, this medicinal plant was tested by Sharifi et al.,

2013 in vitro. His team showed that the usage of a 330 µg/mL concentration of B. integerrima was

able to inhibit the ACE-2 receptor due to 88.2 ± 1.7 IC50 [87][113]. Therefore, B. integerrima can be further

investigated for its potent medicinal values and may provide fruitful results against SARS-CoV-2.



20. Crataegus microphylla C. Koch



This medicinal plant belongs to the family of Rosaceae and almost all parts of the plant are

used for remedial purposes [95][126]. It is widely used for the treatment of many diseases, including

heart muscle cells activation, coronary dilation, regulated blood flow, use as an antioxidant and

anti-diabetic, and many others [96][95][125,126]. It contains flavonoids (phenols, phenolic acids, procyanidins,

flavonoids, triterpenes, polysaccharides, catecho-lamines) which help in controlling/regulating various

diseases [94][97][96][95][120,124–126]. Furthermore, it has also showed efficacy to inhibit the ACE-2 receptor and

prohibit the entry of virus into the cell [87][113]. in vitro results suggested the use of a 330 µg/mL

concentration of Crataegus microphylla was able to inhibit the virus binding to the ACE-2 receptor,

and their IC50 was observed as 80.9 ± 1.3 [87][113]. The occurrence of some potential bioactive compounds

in this medicinal plant and their efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 must be tested for better drug therapy to

manage COVID-19.



21. Alnus japonica (Thunb.) Steud.



Alnus japonica (A. japonica) belongs to Betulaceae family and originally it was found in Japan,

Korea, China and Russia [98][128]. This medicinal plant has wide range of biological activities comprising

antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, as well as the induction of lymphatic

and gastroenteric disorders [98][99][128,130]. It is mostly used for the treatment of various diseases such as fever,

cancer, and blood, lymphatic and gastroenteric disorders [100][263]. Additionally, and most importantly,

A. japonica has been known to have an antiviral effect on SARS-CoV, and its potent bioactive compounds

include hirsutenone, oregonin, rubranoside rubranoside B, rubranol, and hirsutanonol, which are

extracted from the bark of the A. japonica plant [99][130]. These bioactive components have also been

recommended as a promising medicinal plant for the development of potential drugs against SARS-CoV

PLpro. In 2012, Park et al. investigated the effect and efficacy of A. japonica bark against SARS-CoV.



An in vitro study showed that A. japonica is able to inhibit the SARS-CoV PLpro with IC50 value ranging

21 of 41 from 3 to 44.5 µM of these compounds (hirsutenone, oregonin, rubranoside rubranoside B, rubranol,

and hirsutanonol) [99][130]. However, the mode of action suggested that A. japonica bark can possibly

inhibit the SARS-CoV PLpro activity.



22. Psoralea corylifolia L.



Psoralea corylifolia (P. corylifolia) belongs to the Leguminosae family and mostly occurs in India,

China, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and other Asian countries. P. corylifolia is known for

its antiviral, antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-depressant activities [101][102][132,133]. Furthermore, it contains

several potent bioactive components such as neoba-vaisoflavone, isobavachalcone, Bavachinin,

40–O-methyl bavachalcone, corylifol A, and psoralidin [103][264]. In 2014, Kim et al. investigated

the effect of P. corylifolia seed extract and showed an imperative inhibitory effect of SARS-CoV PLpro,

and their IC50 was 15 µg/mL [104][134]. Furthermore, all these bioactive components were tested by

Kim et al., and the IC50 of these components against SARS-CoV PLpro was estimated to range between

4.2 to 38.4 µM. In addition, psoralidin and isobavachalcone showed the highest inhibitory activity

against SARS-CoV PLpro, with IC50 of 4.2 ± 1.0 µM and 7.3± 0.8 µM, respectively [104][134].



23. Paulownia tomentosa (Thunb.) Steud.



Paulownia tomentosa

(

P. tomentosa) is an old Chinese medicinal plant belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is mostly found in central and western China, Taiwan and Korea.

) is an old Chinese medicinal plant belonging to the Scrophulariaceae

family. It is mostly found in central and western China, Taiwan and Korea.

P. tomentosa has wide-ranging biological activities comprising antiviral, antioxidant and antibacterial effects [105][106]. It is mostly used for the treatment of various diseases, such as inflammatory bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infection, asthma, tonsillitis, gonorrhea, traumatic bleeding, enteritis, bacteriological diarrhea, erysipelas, swelling, bronchopneumonia, conjunctivitis, and hemorrhoids [107][108]. Furthermore,

has wide-ranging

biological activities comprising antiviral, antioxidant and antibacterial effects [136,138]. It is mostly

used for the treatment of various diseases, such as inflammatory bronchitis, upper respiratory

tract infection, asthma, tonsillitis, gonorrhea, traumatic bleeding, enteritis, bacteriological diarrhea,

erysipelas, swelling, bronchopneumonia, conjunctivitis, and hemorrhoids [139,265]. Furthermore,

P. tomentosa

has been known to have an antiviral effect on SARS-CoV PLpro.

P. tomentosa fruit contains many bioactive components such as tomentin A, tomentin B, tomentin C, tomentin D, tomentin E, geranylated flavonones and others [109].

In 2013, Cho et al. examined the effect and efficacy of

fruit contains

many bioactive components such as tomentin A, tomentin B, tomentin C, tomentin D, tomentin

E, geranylated flavonones and others [137]. In 2013, Cho et al. examined the effect and efficacy

of

P. tomentosa fruit-extracted bioactive components against SARS-CoV. An in vitro study showed that

fruit-extracted bioactive components against SARS-CoV. An in vitro study showed

that

P. tomentosa is able to inhibit SARS-CoV PLpro activity with an IC50 value ranging from 5.0 to 14.4 µM [109]. Out of all those studied, Tomentin E showed the most promising and highest inhibitory effect against SARS-CoV, with the lowest IC50 5.0 ± 0.06 µM [109].

is able to inhibit SARS-CoV PLpro activity with an IC50 value ranging from 5.0 to

14.4 µM [137]. Out of all those studied, Tomentin E showed the most promising and highest inhibitory

effect against SARS-CoV, with the lowest IC50 5.0 ± 0.06 µM [137].



24. Tribulus terrestris L.



Tribulus terrestris (T. terrestris) is mostly found in China, India, Pakistan, South Americas, Bulgaria,

Mexico and Spain, and is considered as a traditional medicinal plant. T. terrestris belongs to the

Zygophyllaceae family and possesses several biological activities such as antiviral, anti-inflammatory,

antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic and anti-urolithic properties [110][111][141,143]. It contains several

bioactive compounds, mainly flavonoids and alkaloids [112][113][142,266]. In 2014, Song et al. studied the

effect of T. terrestris fruit extract (six cinnamic amides), and showed significant inhibitory effects

against SARS-CoV PLpro [112][142]. Furthermore, all bioactive components tested by Song et al. against

SARS-CoV PLpro were estimated to have an IC50 in a range between 15.8 and 70.1 µM [112][142]. However,

terrestrimine[(E)-N-(1-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-oxoethyl)-3-(4-hydroxy3-methoxypheny)

acrylamide] showed the utmost inhibitory activity against SARS-CoV PLpro with an IC50 of

15.8 ± 0.6 µM [112][142].

25. Sambucus nigra L.



This plant belongs to the family of  Caprrifoliaceae  and is mostly used in the treatment of common

cold, HIV, HSV-1, influenza, urinary tract infection, edema and other rheumatic diseases [114][115][149,267].

It contains several active components extracted from the leaves, flower and fruit parts of the plant, such

as flavonoids, lectins, anthocyanin, etc., which have been found to increase the immunity and inhibit

the viral activity [116][117][118][119][150,152–154]. However, in case of the H1N1 influenza virus, this plant has shown

great potential to block or impede the entry of the virus into the host cells [114][120][121][149,155,268]. Furthermore,

the presence of lectins in this plant is responsible for controlling the symptoms or pathogenesis of

the influenza virus [114][122][149,151]. It also has immunomodulating activity due to the presence of peptic

polysaccharides, polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids [114][149]. Due to several significant and antiviral

relevant properties of this plant, it can possibly be used against SARS-CoV-2.

 

26. Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim.

Eleutherococcus senticosus 

Eleutherococcus senticosus (E. senticosus) belongs to the family of Araliaceae  Araliaceae and is mostly found in

China, Japan and Korea [123][269]. E. senticosus  E. senticosus is used for the treatment of chronic coughing, ischemic heart

disease, diabetes, cancer, altitude sickness, neurodegenerative disorders, and chronic fatigue [114][124][123][125][149,159,

269,270]. Moreover, its leaves are used as food in the form of tea, wine, soups and many others [126][271]. E. senticosus 

E. senticosus leaves have the potential efficacy to inhibit bacterial glucosidase activity, reported in

in vitro results by many researchers. The nature of the component of E. senticosus  E. senticosus responsible for

its antiviral activity remains to be determined, and is currently under investigation together with

the characterization of the target molecules and the molecular basis of the antiviral efficacy of E. senticosus

E. senticosus. However, its extract is able to inhibit the replication of the influenza virus, and viral

replication is common in all kinds of viruses [127][128][124][129][157–159,272]. Several potent bioactive components

are known to be present in the roots of this medicinal plant, such as phenols, lignans, coumarins,

phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, hyperin, rutin, afzelin, quercetin, kaempferol, phenolic acids, triterpenic

acids, and anthocyanin, etc. Due to the presence of these bioactive compounds, in vitro results showed

some antiviral activity too, by blocking the replication of influenza virus in the cells [114][130][149,273]. Therefore,

it is a possible recommendation that plant should go further investigation and may be helpful in

directly or indirectly controlling SARS-CoV-2.



27. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge



This plant belongs to the family of Lamiaceae  Lamiaceae and is commonly known as red sage [131][274]. Its bioactive

components are extracted from the root, including lipophilic diterpenoids, flavonoids, triterpenoids

and hydrophilic phenolic compounds [132][131][133][163,274,275]. It is also used for the treatment of various diseases,

such as removing blood stasis, improving blood circulation, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, angina

pectoris, other cardiovascular diseases and antiviral activity of HIV-1 and Enterovirus by inhibiting

RdRp enzyme activity [134][135][132][136][161–164].



28. Acacia arabica (Lam.) Willd.

Acacia

Acacia arabica arabica (A. arabica) belongs to the family of  Fabaceae  and is widely distributed

in Asian regions [137][167]. It is basically used for the treatment of various diseases, such as

Newcastle disease, vaccinia virus, bursal disease virus, H9N2 influenza disease, skin diseases,

and possesses many biological properties including antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, and antioxidant effects.

The mechanism of action of A. A. arabica arabica is known. It specifically inhibits the stage of viral intracellular

multiplication [114][137][138][139][149,167–169]. Furthermore, A. A. arabica arabica contains several bioactive components extracted

from the leaves of the plant which are responsible for its bioactivity, such as flavonoids, methyl 3,4,5

tri hydroxyl benzoate,  p-coumaroyl glucoside,  p-coumaroylquinic acid, ferulic acid, isoferulic acid,

epicatechin-3-gallate, ascorbic acid, quercetin 3-O-(40-O-acetyl)-rhamnopyranoside, oleic acid, myristic

acid, palmitic acid and steroidal sapogenin aglycone [140][137][138][141][166–168,276]. A. A. arabica arabica also has the potential

to inhibit the viral replication against HIV infection [114][139][149,169]. Due to its antiviral nature, it is highly

recommended to use A. A. arabica arabica for controlling/managing SARS-CoV-2 infection.



29. Ocimum sanctum L.

Ocimum sanctum 

Ocimum sanctum (O. sanctum) belongs to the family of Lamiaceae  Lamiaceae and is commonly known as

tulsi [137][142][167,173]. This aromatic plant is basically found in all Asian countries. It is used for the treatment

of diseases such as cough, anxiety, arthritis, dysentery, diarrhea, asthma, fever, skin and eye disorders,

otalgia, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiac and genitourinary disorders, back pain, snake, insect and

scorpion bites, malaria, and H9N2 influenza disease [143][137][138][142][144][16,167,168,173,178]. The leaves of O. sanctum  O. sanctum

contain several bioactive compounds, such as alkanoids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, phenols,

anthocyanins and triterpenoids [137][145][142][167,172,173]. However, this medicinal plant has the potential to

block the activity of different pathogens and can act as a potent antiviral, antifungal, anti-protozoan,

anti-malarial, anti-helminthic, antibacterial, mosquito repellent, etc.; its other clinical activities are

detailed in Table 1 Table 1 [137][146][145][142][147][148][149][150][167,171–177]. Ghoke et al. showed that treatment with the crude extract derived

from the leaves of O. sanctum  O. sanctum leads to significant H9N2 virus reduction in assessing all three—virucidal,

therapeutic and prophylactic—activities using an in vivo model. They suggested that the crude extract

of O. sanctum  O. sanctum could be a promising extract for developing safe and efficacious antiviral compounds

against the H9N2 virus. The protecting effectiveness of the crude extract of O. sanctum  O. sanctum might be

ascribed to multiple mechanisms of action (specific inhibition of viral intracellular multiplication

stage and non-specific interference with virus–cell interactions such as masking/blocking the HA

glycoprotein [137][167]. Due to these vast known biological properties, it would be of great importance to

study the potential particular active ingredient or combinations, which are responsible for its broader

antiviral activity, further. Therefore, O. sanctum  O. sanctum might be helpful for the treatment of COVID-19,

and can potentially block the entry of virus as well as its replication.



30. Ocimum basilicum L.



This medicinal herb belongs to the family of Lamiaceae and it is also known as sweet basil [114][151][149,181].

It is mostly used in industries as food, perfumes and cosmetics [151] [181] due to its potent antiviral,

anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial activities [152][151][153][154][180,181,183,184]. Moreover, it contains

several bioactive components such as phenolic compounds, flavonoids and anthocyanin extracted from

the whole plant of O. basilicumO. basilicum [155][153][154][182–184]. This herb has been used for HIV treatment and showed very

good potential to inhibit the replication of the HIV virus, and blocks further viral processing [114][151][149,181].



31. Theobroma cacao L.

Theobroma cacao (T. cacao) belongs to the family of Sterculiaceae. The seeds of this cocoa plant are commonly used in food industries [156]. It contains several types of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenol, theobromine and flavonoids [157], which are responsible for its antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and many other biological activities [158][159][160]. However, some studies reported the anti-influenza activity of T. cacao, due to presence of flavonoids, theobromine, lignin, dietary fiber, free fatty acid, and minerals (zinc, copper, iron) [158][161][159]. Kamei et al., 2014 investigated the effect of T. cacao against the influenza virus and found that it enhances the antibody response due to stimulatory effect [161]. Furthermore, it has also been observed that, T. cacao helps in developing acquired immunity and activates the NK cells against the influenza virus [161]. Further investigation may lead to the use of T. cacao against SARS-CoV-2, and can help in boosting immunity.



Theobroma cacao (T. cacao) belongs to the family of Sterculiaceae. The seeds of this cocoa plant are

commonly used in food industries [277]. It contains several types of bioactive compounds, such as

polyphenol, theobromine and flavonoids [278], which are responsible for its antioxidant, antiviral,

anti-inflammatory and many other biological activities [186,188,189]. However, some studies reported

the anti-influenza activity of T. cacao, due to presence of flavonoids, theobromine, lignin, dietary fiber,

free fatty acid, and minerals (zinc, copper, iron) [186–188]. Kamei et al., 2014 investigated the effect of

T. cacao against the influenza virus and found that it enhances the antibody response due to stimulatory

effect [187]. Furthermore, it has also been observed that, T. cacao helps in developing acquired immunity

and activates the NK cells against the influenza virus [187]. Further investigation may lead to the use

of T. cacao against SARS-CoV-2, and can help in boosting immunity.



32. Pelargonium sidoides DC.

Pelargonium sidoides 

Pelargonium sidoides (P. sidoides) belongs to the family of Geraniaceae  Geraniaceae and is commonly known

as Umckaloabo [162][191]. It is found all over the world and roots of this plant are traditionally used

for remedial purposes against tuberculosis, respiratory diseases, cough, gastrointestinal infection,

viral diseases and others [162][163][191,193]. P. sidoides  P. sidoides roots are known to have some potent compounds, such as

methoxycoumarin, proanthocyanidins and prodelphinidins [164][192]. Furthermore, its roots are also used

for the production of herbal drugs known as EPs 7639 by ethanolic extract, which have been approved

for the treatment of respiratory tract infections [162][165][191,194]. According to Theisen et al., 2012, P. sidoides  P. sidoides

also has the potential to inhibit the viral entry of the influenza virus [165][194]. Therefore, it is suggested

that roots of P. sidoides  P. sidoides should be further investigated for the treatment of COVID-19.



33. Taraxacum officinale (L.) WEB. ex WIGG.



This medicinal plant belongs to the family of Asteraceae  Asteraceae and it is commonly known as dandelion [18][48].

It is traditionally used for the treatment of various diseases such as kidney diseases, lung diseases,

breast tumor, diabetes, uterus infections, digestive system related abnormalities, etc. [166][167][198,279].

Pharmacological research has proven the efficacy of this medicinal plant as antiviral, antibacterial,

choleretic, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepato-protective, diuretic and antifungal [166][198].

It contains several bioactive components, extracted from the aerial parts and roots, such as terpenes,

flavonoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, triterpenoids, steroids, coumarins, phenols, saponins,

flavones, flavonols, chalcones, phlobatannins, and cardiac glycosides [168][169][170][196,197,280]. Han et al., 2011

found the potential of this medicinal plant to inhibit the viral replication of HIV [171][199]. Similarly, Lee et al.,

2012 also suggested its potential to enhance pro-inflammatory cytokines and improve the immune

system [172][201]. Furthermore, it is also known to inhibit the influenza virus’ entry into cells [18][173][48,200].

Therefore, due to its vast and significant antiviral properties, it is highly recommended to conduct

further investigation on this medicinal plant for the discovery of potent drugs against COVID-19.



34. Illicium oligandrum Merr & Chun

Illicium

Illicium oligandrum oligandrum (I. oligandrum) belongs to the family of  Magnoliaceae, being a rich source of

seco-prezizaane type sesquiterpenes [174][203]. It is known to have antiviral activity against herpes simplex

virus type 2, coxsackie virus and influenza virus [175][176][204,206]. It has some potent bioactive compounds,

such as sesquiterpene lactones, neolignan glycosides, phenolic diglycosides and prenylated compounds

which are responsible for its antiviral activities [175][176][204,206]. However, this medicinal plant is also used for

the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, and neurotoxic and neuro-trophic effects [177][205]. Ma et al., 2013

reported the ethanolic extraction of spirooliganones A 1 & B from the roots of I. I. oligandrum oligandrum and showed

its potential to inhibit the activity of influenza virus (H3N2) (IC50 50 3.70–33.33 µM) and coxsackie virus

B3 [175][204].



35. Glycyrrhiza glabra L.

Glycyrrhiza glabra 

Glycyrrhiza glabra (Liquorice) belongs to the family of Fabaceae  Fabaceae and is among the most ancient

medicinal plants [178][212]. It has several very well-known biological activities, such as antiviral

(HIV, SARS-CoV), anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-tumorigenic and anti-ulcer

properties [179][180][209,210]. The root of Liquorice is known to have many bioactive components, including

flavonoids, glycyrrhizic acid, triterpenoid, saponins, etc. [180][178][210,212]. Few studies showed that chalcones

extracted from Liquorice have the ability to block or inhibit the activity of influenza virus [18][181][48,208].

Therefore, there is a possibility that this plant might be useful against SARS-CoV-2 due to its

antiviral properties.



36. Angelica keiskei (Miq.) Koidz.

Angelica keiskei 

Angelica keiskei (A. keiskei) belongs to the family of Umbelliferae,  Umbelliferae, and its leaves are basically used

for remedial purposes [182][147]. Its bioactive components include chalcones, flavanones and coumarins,

coumarins phenolic, acetylenes, sesquiterpene, diterpene, and triterpenes [183][184][144,146]. A. keiskei  A. keiskei is

known and considered to be antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, anti-oxidative,

anti-coagulant, anti-tumor, anti-mutagenic, anti-diabetic, antibacterial and hepato-protective [183][185][184][144–146].

Park et al., 2016 extracted bioactive components (9 alkylated chalcones and 4 coumarins) from A. keiskei  A. keiskei

plant [184][146], and revealed that the extracted chalcones were able to significantly block the entry of  

coronavirus (SARS-CoV-1) by inhibiting the chymotrypsin-like protease (75% inhibition using 30 µg/mL

dose) and a papain-like protease (88% inhibition using 30 µg/mL dose) [184][146]. In addition, the IC50 50

of this chalcone and chalcone 6 are 11.4 and 1.2 µM, respectively [184][146]. Therefore, due to this very

specific inhibition property of A. keiskei  A. keiskei deserves further investigation for the development of potent

antiviral agents against COVID-19.



37. Polygala karensium Kurz

Polygala

Polygala karensium karensium (P. karensium) is a medicinal plant belonging to the family of  Polygalaceae 

and can mostly be found in China, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam [186][215]. It has important and

potent bioactive compounds, i.e., xanthones, which have shown many biological activities such as

antiviral, antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxicity, etc. [187][186][188][214–216]. In addition, it is also used to treat

various ailments such as cough, bronchitis, neurasthenia, inflammation and amnesia [186][215]. However,

Dao et al., 2012 conducted one in vitro study on H1N1, H9N2, and novel H1N1 (WT) strains using

ethanol-extracted xanthones from the root of P. karensiumP. karensium, and found that xanthones have the potential to

completely inhibit influenza virus activity [187][214]. Therefore, xanthones from P. P. karensium karensium can also be one

of the choices worth investigation for the further development of phytomedicine against SARS-CoV-2.



38. Calophyllum brasiliense Cambess.

Calophyllum brasiliense 

Calophyllum brasiliense (C. brasiliense) is a medicinal plant, and basically belongs to the family

of Clusiaceae Clusiaceae, mostly found in South America, Central America and the Caribbean region [189][218].

It is used as a remedy to treat several diseases, such as parasitic, viral, bacterial and fungal

diseases [189][190][218,220]. Its potent biological activities include antiviral, antibacterial, anti-protozoal and

antifungal effects [189][191][218,219]. However, Kudo et al., 2013 investigated the role of this medicinal plant

in HIV disease, firstly by extracting tricyclic coumarin from the leaves of C. brasiliense  C. brasiliense and testing

in vitro [190][220]. Hence, they revealed that tricyclic coumarin from C. Brasiliense  C. Brasiliense possesses great potential

to inhibit viral replication by blocking the NFkB pathway [190][220].



39. Cimicifuga foetida L.

Cimicifuga foetida 

Cimicifuga foetida (C. foetida) belongs to the family of Ranunculaceae  Ranunculaceae and it is also known as Shengma.

It is abundantly distributed in Asian region [192][225]. It is basically used to treat various ailments, such as

fever, headache, sore throat, toothache, uterine prolapse and inflammation [193][224]. It contains several

bioactive compounds extracted from rhizomes, including cycloartane triterpenoids and glycosides

with antiviral, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory activities [192][225]. Wang et al., 2012 investigated the role of C. foetida

C. foetida, especially the cimicifugin component of it, against Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and found

that the plant has a strong potential to inhibit viral attachment and internalization [194][193][223,224]. Moreover,

cimicifugin was also able to stimulate epithelial cells and initiate the secretion of cytokines such

as IFN-β, to clear the viral infection/load [195][281]. Furthermore, another in vitro study conducted by

Dai et al., 2016 observed the potential of C. foetida  C. foetida in inhibiting the hepatitis B virus transcription

and replication by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines [196][222]. Due to the capacity of producing

strong pro-inflammatory cytokines and immunomodulatory properties, C. foetida  C. foetida can be used to treat

COVID-19 disease.



40. Boerhavia diffusa L.

Boerhavia diffusa 

Boerhavia diffusa (B. diffusa) belongs to the family of Nyctaginaceae  Nyctaginaceae and is commonly known as

punarnava [197][282]. It is mostly found in Asian countries and is basically used for the treatment of

various diseases, such as abdominal pain, jaundice, dyspepsia, stress, spleen enlargement and liver

diseases [198][228]. B. diffusa  B. diffusa bioactive components extracted from leaf, stem and root include flavonoids,

triterpenoids, alkaloids, hypoxanthine, steroids, lipids, lignin, proteins, ursolic acid, boeravinone,

punarnavoside, etc. [199][200][227,230]. However, Bose et al., 2017 suggested that B. diffusa  B. diffusa has a strong potential

to inhibit the entry of hepatitis C virus and its major compound (boeravinone H component) were able

to block the initial phase of HCV entry through acting directly on the viral particles [198][228]. Moreover,

Manu et al., 2007 also showed that its second major bioactive compound (Punarnavine) was also able

to enhance the immune response, especially IFN-γ and interleukin-2 cytokines [201][229]. This categorizes

B. diffusa as B. diffusa as  a therapeutically important plant to be considered under the current circumstances of the

COVID-19 pandemic and worth further investigation.



41. Terminalia chebula Retz

Terminalia chebula 

Terminalia chebula (T. chebula) belongs to the family of Combretaceae  Combretaceae and is mostly found in

the Asian region [202][283]. It is one of the most important medicinal plants due to the presence of a

huge number of different kinds of phytoconstituents [203][232]. It is customarily used as a household

remedy and also in modern, Ayurveda, Unani and Homoeopathic medicines [203][202][232,283]. Its bioactive

components extracted from the leaves, bark and fruit of the plant include flavonoids, polyphenols,

terpenes, anthocyanins, glycosides, gallic acid, chebulagic acid, punicalagin, chebulanin, corilagin,

neochebulinic acid, ellagic acid, chebulinic acid, alkaloids and many more [203][204][205][232,237,284]. It is also

known to be used as a cure for irregular fevers, urinary diseases, diabetes, skin diseases, heart diseases,

constipation, ulcers, vomiting, colic pain, hemorrhoids, digestive diseases, and others [203][206][204][232,235,237].

However, T. chebula  T. chebula has many pharmacological activities such as antiviral, antioxidant, antibacterial,

antifungal, anti-protozoal, anti-carcinogenic, anti-mutagenic, radio-protective, chemo-preventive,

hepato-protective, cardio-protective, cyto-protective, anti-diabetic, reno-protective, anti-inflammatory,

anti-arthritic, adaptogenic, anti-anaphylactic, hypolipidemic, hypocholesterolemic, anti-caries,

wound healing, anti-allergic, immunomodulatory, anti-ulcer, anti-spasmodic and gastrointestinal

motility properties [203][207][206][208][204][232,233,235–237]. Lin et al., 2013 conducted an in vitro study and found that

chebulagic acid and punicalagin from the fruit of T. chebula  T. chebula have the potential to inhibit the activity of

different viruses, such as human cytomegalovirus, HCV, dengue virus, measles virus, and respiratory

syncytial virus [209][234]. Due to its strong biological properties, it is highly recommended to study T. chebula 

T. chebula as a possible remedy against SARS-CoV-2.



42. Caesalpinia sappan L.

Caesalpinia sappan 

Caesalpinia sappan (C. sappan) belongs to the family of Caesalpiniaceae  Caesalpiniaceae and it is usually known

as Brazil or Sappan wood [191][219]. It is mostly found in Southeast Asian regions and is traditionally

used for the treatment of various diseases such as tuberculosis, diarrhea, dysentery, skin infections,

anemia, etc. [191][210][219,240]. C. sappan  C. sappan is effectively considered as an antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant,

antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-complementary [219,240,241]. Its bacteioactive constituents include

xanthone, coumarin, chal, antcones, flavones, homoisoflavonoids, and brazilin [240]. Tewtrakul et al.,

2015, extracted nine compounds from the roots of C. sappan. The results showed that, out of those

nine, sappanchalcone (IC50 2.3 µM) and protosappanin A (IC50 12.6 µM) presented the strongest

effect against HIV-1 IN [240]. On the other hand, Liu et al, and ., 2009 also investigated the role of this

medicinal planti-co against influenza virus. The in vitro study showed that 3-deoxysappanchalcone and

sappanchalcone component isolemated from C. sappan exhibited the highest activity againtst influenza

virus (H3N2), with IC50 1.06 and 2.06 µg/mL, respectively [191][210][211][239]. Therefore, sappanchalcone from

C. sappan should also be considered for further examination against SARS-CoV-2.

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