uaetodaynews.com — Antiviral potential found in cardamom

Plant components have long been used to treat viral infections. New research from scientists from Shinshu University (Japan) showed that an aqueous extract of cardamom seeds and its main bioactive component – 1,8-cineole – are able to enhance the production of antiviral interferon proteins by activating internal nucleic acid “sensors” in cells. The work was published in the journal Foods.

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) turned out to have pronounced antiviral properties. In previous work, the same group of scientists found that the seed extract was able to prevent infection by the influenza virus. New research has revealed the specific mechanism of action of this plant.

The scientists used cultured A549 human lung cells treated with cardamom extract. Then they simulated viral infection to monitor the cell response. It turned out that 1,8-cineole activates intracellular nucleic acid sensors – receptors that recognize viral DNA and RNA. This triggers the production of cytokines, signaling molecules of the immune system. The synthesis of type I interferons, key mediators of the body’s innate antiviral response, especially increases.

Thus, cardamom extract does not destroy the virus directly, but stimulates the cells’ own defense mechanisms. The researchers call this process “natural immune activation” and note that this effect has previously been observed in only a few plant compounds.

According to one of the authors of the study, Dr. Takeshi Kawahara, the team has been studying products with antiviral potential for several years, and interest in this topic has sharply increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Scientists believe that the results open up the prospect of using cardamom not only as a spice.

The authors emphasize that preclinical and clinical trials are necessary before talking about practical use. However, the results show that common foods can provide natural substances that can support immunity and reduce the risk of viral diseases.

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Published on: 2025-10-18 10:40:00
Source: naukatv.ru