COVID-19: Clinical aspects and role of single herbal drugs – A review from classical texts of Ayurveda

Objectives: The present review was carried out to compile and evaluate the clinical aspects of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) described in classical texts of Ayurveda. Data Sources: Information available in different classical texts of Ayurveda, compendiums, and latest Nighantu (lexicons) was compiled, analyzed and presented systematically. Review Methods: Concepts of epidemics, possible management approach, different single herbal drugs indicated in the management of symptoms related to COVID-19 as described in Ayurveda is presented systematically with the help of published scientific literature. Results and Conclusion: A comprehensive review of single herbal drugs indicated for the management of symptoms related to COVID-19 shows that, they can be categorized into symptom modifiers and general health promoters. The drugs having symptom specific indications along with reported research related to that indication such as shunthi, pippali, haridra, tulasi, saptaparna can be considered for their role in the effective management of symptoms. General health promoting agents such as Ashvagandha, Guduchi, Yashtimadhu, Haritaki, Amalaki which are having rasāyana, balya properties can improve quality of life, provides strength, or resistance against the disease. Some experimental and clinical studies are also reported to establish their efficacy which supports the classical claims. Further scientific studies to understand the exact mechanism of action of these drugs individually or in combinations is need of the time.