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20.05.2021

Does Rhodiola rosea protect against ebola?

Perhaps mankind has discovered a means that can protect against the Ebola virus many centuries ago. Researchers at Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine found out that extracts of the adaptogenic Rhodiola rosea can hinder the entry of the Ebola virus into human cells.

Study
The researchers put 373 extracts of a total of 128 traditional Chinese medicines in test tubes containing human cells. They then exposed the cells to the dreaded Ebola virus and checked whether the extracts slowed down the virus' entry into the cells.

Results
The researchers had a hit - Rhodiola rosea. Extracts from the plant proved to be able to protect cells not only against the Ebola virus [EBOV], but also against the Marburg virus [MARV].

The researchers then determined which components of Rhodiola rosea had the most powerful antiviral effect. These were, as the figure above shows, ellagic acid and gallic acid.

These substances are old acquaintances among the regular readers of this free web magazine. Ellagic acid is also found in raspberries and other small fruits, gallic acid is present in grapes.

Conclusion
"In conclusion, we have identified Rhodiola rosea as a potent Ebola virus entry agent", the researchers summarize their findings.

"This traditional Chinese medicine has potent anti-Ebola activity and proven safety profile, making it a promising antiviral for further development."

"Though gallic and ellagic acids have been identified as active components, further detailed fractionation and chemical research is needed to purify other active ingredients and to elucidate how these chemicals act synergically in inhibiting filovirus entry."

Source:
Viruses. 2018 Mar 27;10(4):152.

More:
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