Evaluation of the recognized active compounds for COVID-19: two studies on EGCG from green tea and crocin from saffron

Researchers continue to examine the potential effectiveness of botanicals and their active compounds for the management of CODIV-19 infection. Recently, two studies have provided data on the potential efficacy of two well-known compounds.

Park et al. (2021) have published an article on the therapeutic potential of EGCG, the major green tea polyphenol. Several studies have demonstrated a potential inhibitory effect on EGCG on the enzymatic activity of the coronavirus 3CL protease, which is the main target of antivirals against coronavirus. Other mechanisms of action have been proposed, and notably a potential effect on the virus replication.

Another article proposes the use of crocin, from saffron, for the management of COVID-19 owing to its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory potential (Ghasemnejad-Berenji et al., 2021). The authors suggest that crocin has the potential to limit the progression and severity of the SARS-CoV-2 infection. It may prevent the viral entry to host cells, and potentially reduce lung injuries.

Researchers still continue to improve the management of COVID-19 infections. Natural compounds, such as EGCG or crocin, may have some efficacy to reduce the infection and its deleterious consequences.

Ghasemnejad-Berenji M. Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory potential of crocin in COVID-19 treatment. J Food Biochem. 2021 Apr 4:e13718.

Park J, Park R, Jang M, Park YI. Therapeutic Potential of EGCG, a Green Tea Polyphenol, for Treatment of Coronavirus Diseases. Life (Basel). 2021 Mar 4;11(3):197.

Photo by Fusion Medical Animation on Unsplash