Antiviral Nutraceuticals from Pomegranate (Punica granatum) Juice

Rehan Haider*, Geetha Kumari Das**, Zameer Ahmed Khanzada***, Sambreen Zameer Khanzada****
* Department of Pharmacy, University of Karachi, Pakistan.
** OPJS University, Churu, Rajasthan, India.
***-**** Department of Pathology, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan.
Periodicity:May - August'2024

Abstract

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) boasts a rich history of medicinal use and is prized for its exceptional phytochemical composition. Abundant in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins, pomegranate exhibits significant antiviral properties, acting through various mechanisms, including impeding viral attachment and entry, suppressing replication, and enhancing the immune response. This study has explored the antiviral efficacy of pomegranate juice extracts against a spectrum of viruses, including common pathogens. Findings suggest that the blend of blue and red colors in these extracts can inhibit viral replication and reduce viral load, making them promising candidates for antiviral therapeutics. Moreover, the high antioxidant content of these colors contributes to mitigating oxidative stress associated with viral infections. Furthermore, the immunomodulatory effects of the blue and red color blend enhance the body's natural defense against viruses by stimulating the release of cytokines and chemokines crucial for immune responses. This combination of antiviral and immune-boosting properties positions pomegranate juice as a promising natural antiviral agent. The safety and accessibility of pomegranate juice make it an attractive option for nutraceutical development, as it is widely consumed and easily incorporated into daily dietary practices. However, further research, including clinical trials, is needed to validate its efficacy and safety in the prevention and treatment of viral infections. Utilizing standardized pomegranate-based nutraceuticals or supplements presents a novel strategy for combating various viral ailments, offering a viable alternative to conventional antiviral therapies.

Keywords

Pomegranate, Punica granatum, Antivirals, Nutraceuticals, Polyphenols, Flavonoids, Tannins, Antioxidants, Viral Replication, Immune Response, Immunomodulatory, Cytokines, Chemokines.

How to Cite this Article?

Haider, R., Das, G. K., Khanzada, Z. A., Khanzada, S. Z. (2024). Antiviral Nutraceuticals from Pomegranate (Punica granatum) Juice. i-manager’s Journal on Chemical Sciences, 4(2), 25-30.

References

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