From one of recent studies investigated a benefit and risk assessment for a use of herbal medicines. 39 Medical Herbs which are known for the management of respiratory conditions, mainly regarding the cold and flu symptoms, such as cough, pain and fever, were included in the study.
This study focused on their therapeutic potential, the limitations for their use and possible risks. Especially 5 of them, Althaea officinalis, Commiphora molmol, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Hedera helix and Sambucus nigra suggests a potential clinical use as adjuvants in the treatment of early & mild cases of COVID-19. Another twelve herbs were shown with promising results as well.
Those herbs are traditionally indicated for respiratory diseases, as adjuvant symptomatic therapy in the self-management of mild symptoms in the context of COVID-19 disease. In addition, three recommended drugs –ibuprofen, paracetamol and codeine – were also assessed.
The study clearly investigates each of the herbal medicines or drugs compile indications, chemical composition, posology, preclinical and clinical evidence, safety as well as specific warnings and precautions for use.
Source: COVID-19: Is there evidence for the use of herbal medicines as adjuvant symptomatic therapy? Front. Pharmacol. 11:581840. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2020.581840