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

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Synopsis

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

Saponins are a diverse group of natural compounds found in many plants, including ginseng, licorice, and quinoa, and have been used in traditional medicine systems for centuries. Their use to support or treat viral infections is primarily rooted in folk and traditional practices, especially within herbal medicine traditions in Asia, Africa, and South America. Historically, saponin-containing herbs have been used to boost general immunity or as part of preparations aimed at respiratory and other infections, which may have included viral illnesses, although the distinction between viral and bacterial infections was not made in ancient times.

Scientific research has shown that certain specific saponins possess immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and in some cases, antiviral activities in vitro or in animal models. For example, ginsenosides (saponins from ginseng) and glycyrrhizin (from licorice) have demonstrated inhibitory effects on some viruses in laboratory studies. However, the category "Saponins (unspecified)" does not refer to a single compound, and the effects of saponins can vary widely. There is insufficient high-quality clinical evidence to broadly support the use of saponins as a class for treating viral infections in humans. Thus, while their use is traditional and some scientific research is promising, it is not yet validated by robust human clinical trials.

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