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Planta Med 2020; 86(10): 659-664
DOI: 10.1055/a-1177-4396
Natural Product Chemistry and Analytical Studies
Perspectives
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Challenges at the Time of COVID-19: Opportunities and Innovations in Antivirals from Nature

Andreas Hensel
1   Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Phytochemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
,
Rudolf Bauer
2   Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
,
Michael Heinrich
3   Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, UCL School of Pharmacy, London, UK
,
Verena Spiegler
1   Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Phytochemistry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
,
Oliver Kayser
4   Technical Biochemistry, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
,
Georg Hempel
5   Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry, Clinical Pharmacy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
,
Karin Kraft
6   University Medicine Rostock, Chair of Complementary Medicine, Rostock, Germany
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

received 20 April 2020
revised 05 May 2020

accepted 13 May 2020

Publication Date:
20 May 2020 (online)

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Abstract

As viral infections are an increasing threat to human societies, the need for new therapeutic strategies is becoming even more obvious. As no vaccine is available for COVID-19, the development of directly acting antiviral agents and preventive strategies have to be considered. Nature provides a huge reservoir of anti-infectious compounds, from which we can deduce innovative ideas, therapies, and products. Anti-adhesive natural products interact with the receptor-mediated recognition and early interaction of viruses with the host cells, leading to a reduced internalisation of the virus and reduced infections (e.g., procyanidin-B-2-di-O-gallate against influenza and herpes virus). Lignans like podophyllotoxin and bicyclol show strong antiviral activities against different viruses, and essential oils can directly interact with viral membranes and reduce the hostʼs inflammatory responses (e.g., 1,8-cineol). Echinacea extracts stimulate the immune system, and bioavailable alkamides are key players by interacting with immunomodulating cannabinoid receptors. COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 infections have, in part, successfully been treated in China by preparations from traditional Chinese medicine and, while it is too early to draw conclusions, some promising data are available. There is huge potential, but intensified research is needed to develop evidence-based medicines with a clearly defined chemical profile. Intensified research and development, and therefore funding, are needed for exploiting natureʼs reservoir against viral infections. Combined action for basic research, chemistry, pharmacognosy, virology, and clinical studies, but also supply chain, sustainable sourcing, and economic aspects have to be considered. This review calls for intensified innovative science on natural products for the patients and for a healthier world!

Key words

COVID - Coronaviridae - Echinacea - Asteraceae - virus - tannins - lignans - anti-adhesion - immune system - phytotherapy
 

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