Evidence supporting the use of: Cistus
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cistus, particularly species like Cistus incanus and Cistus creticus, has been investigated for its antiviral properties in several scientific studies, though it also has a history of traditional use for infections. The most substantial evidence comes from in vitro studies showing that extracts of Cistus can inhibit replication of certain viruses, including influenza viruses and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The proposed mechanism involves the polyphenolic compounds in Cistus, which may bind to viral envelope proteins and prevent viral entry into host cells. For example, a 2007 study published in Antiviral Research showed that a standardized extract of Cistus incanus reduced infectivity of influenza A virus in cell cultures. Another study (Droebner et al., 2011) found a reduction in influenza virus titers in the lungs of infected mice treated with Cistus extract. There is also some evidence suggesting activity against other enveloped viruses, but robust clinical data in humans are lacking. Clinical trials are limited and mostly small in scale, with some suggesting a reduction in upper respiratory tract infection symptoms, but these findings are preliminary. Thus, while there is scientific rationale and some early evidence, the overall clinical support remains limited, and large, well-controlled human studies are needed to confirm efficacy for viral infections.

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