Artemisinin and Sweet Wormwood vs. COVID-19
As researchers continue to seek effective drug treatments for COVID-19 and the resulting cytokine storm, many investigators are turning to natural medicine particularly, the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) pharmacopeia in search of safe and effective antiviral and immune-regulatory therapies. TCM, a rich therapeutic partner, has been observed to be effective against similar viral pathogens, such as SARS-CoV.
One botanical extract emerging as a possible adjunct against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is artemisinin a potent active derivative of sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua /A. annua).
Artemisinin is shown in prior research to be an effective antiviral agent, with additional anti-inflammatory benefits. Artemesia annua, artemisinin was first discovered in the 1970s. It’s now commonly used worldwide for treating malaria. Further research suggests that the effects of the whole herb A. annua may be even greater than artemisinin alone.
Targeting Viral Entry into Cells 
A. annua is shown to inhibit SARS-CoV and other viruses. In addition, a compound present in A. annua called aurantiamide acetate is shown to impede cathepsin-L (CTSL), a protein that is critical for SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells. CTSL has been identified as a potential drug target for the treatment of COVID-19.
A recent randomized, double-blind clinical trial demonstrated that A. annua is more effective than artesunate-amodiaquine (ASAQ), a frontline drug treatment for malaria.
Artemisinin with Artemisia Whole Herb
The combination of artemisinin extract, together with the whole herb A. annua, may provide even greater anti-viral and anti-inflammatory benefits, through the broad-spectrum, synergistic actions of additional plant compounds present in the entire herb.
For example, phytochemicals in A. annua can improve the bioavailability of artemisinin via a number of mechanisms. Other phytochemicals in A. annua are also believed to contribute to its superior anti-inflammatory effects, compared with artemisinin alone. It is now clear that artemisinin is not the only antiviral or anti-inflammatory ingredient in A. annua. Combining the two in a broad-spectrum formula offers dual-action (anti-viral and anti-inflammatory) support against COVID-19 and its potential cytokine storm.
LotusRain Naturopathic and Artemisinin Supplementation
At LotusRain Naturopathic Clinic we have long recognized the benefits Artemisinin delivers. We offer many immunity booster IV’s and alternative treatment protocols– call now to learn more schedule your appointment HERE. 619.239-LIFE (5433)
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