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

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Sulfated polysaccharides, particularly those derived from marine algae (such as carrageenan, fucoidan, and ulvan), have been investigated for their antiviral properties. Scientific studies, primarily in vitro and some in vivo, indicate that these compounds can inhibit a range of viruses, including herpes simplex virus, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), influenza, and more recently, coronaviruses. The proposed mechanisms include blocking viral attachment and entry by mimicking cell surface glycosaminoglycans, and modulating immune responses.

Several studies have demonstrated that carrageenan nasal sprays can reduce the duration and severity of common cold and influenza-like illnesses, possibly by preventing viral entry into respiratory epithelial cells. Fucoidan and other sulfated polysaccharides have exhibited antiviral activity in laboratory settings, but human clinical data is limited.

While the evidence is promising, most of it is preclinical or comes from small clinical trials. There is not yet robust, large-scale clinical evidence to confirm efficacy for the treatment or prevention of viral infections in humans. Therefore, while the use of sulfated polysaccharides for viral infections is justified by scientific exploration and some early clinical results, the strength of evidence is moderate and further research is needed to establish clinical recommendations.

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Products containing Sulfated polysaccharide

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