Article: CONCEPTUAL REVIEW ON THE POTENTIAL OF PUNARNAVADYA GHRITA IN TACKLING THE SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.120393

Pages: 157-163

Author: G. Siva Ram *

Abstract: COVID-19 disease has created panic among all with respect to health and economy. On 11^th March 2020 WHO (world health organisation) declared novel corona virus outbreak as global pandemic. Confirmed effective remedy to prevent or treat COVID-19 is not yet established. Ayurveda, the Indian system of medicine is the oldest medicinal literature known to mankind as old as 3000 BC and is recognised as medical system by WHO. There is a need to investigate time tested potent classical Ayurvedic formulations backed by contemporary scientific studies in treating symptoms of COVID-19 disease. Vijaya (Cannabis sativa Linn.) in Ayurveda notable for its Vyavayi (quick absorption) and Yogavahi (synergetic action) properties said to be originated from ambrosia as per Vedic mythology. Recent scientific research on the phytochemicals of Cannabis plant showed promising results in decreasing the pro-inflammatory cytokine storm and to an extent halting the replication of SARS-CoV-2. We have put forward one such classical Cannabis Ayurvedic formulation Punarnavadya Ghrita available in market which can be useful as an alternative remedy for prophylactic and curative to the symptoms of novel corona virus disease whose individual herbal phytochemical compounds are studied through in silico, in vitro and in vivo methods in treating COVID-19 with positive outcomes.  

Keyword: Punarnavadya Ghrita, Cannabis, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, Main protease, Cytokine storm.