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Antiviral herbs vs. antiviral drugs
Antiviral herbs:
Herbs of innumerable variety are used for centuries in ancient cultures
to cure several mild and severe ailments. Usually those herbs which
are capable of killing virus are called antiviral herbs. A herb
by the name of Star aniseeds, popularly known as "bajiao,"
or Eight-Angled Seeds in China which is used as a spice in oriental
cooking is capable of killing the flu virus. The chief ingredient
of Tamiflu, called Shikimic Acid, is extracted from Star Aniseeds
through a process patented by Roche Holding AG, the Swiss pharmaceutical
company. Echinacea and Elderberry has been used in folk medicine
for centuries to treat influenza, colds and sinusitis, and has been
reported to have antiviral activity against influenza and herpes
simplex.
Antiviral drugs:
Antiviral drugs belong to a class of medication used specifically
for treating viral infections and specific antivirals are used for
specific viruses. The emergence of antivirals is the product of
a greatly expanded knowledge of the genetic and molecular function
of organisms, allowing biomedical researchers to understand the
structure and function of viruses; major advances in the techniques
for finding new drugs; and the intense pressure placed on the medical
profession to deal with the human virus of several types. Antivirals
like Tamiflu, Amantadine, Rimantadine and Relenza are of immense
help in providing protection against viral influenza.
Difference between antiviral herbs
and antiviral drugs:
- Antiviral herbs are devoid of any side effects whereas usage
of antiviral drugs can lead to side effects.
- Antiviral drugs act faster than the herbs therefore its use
is recommended during emergency.
- Antiviral drugs can be of immense help in controlling any
outbreak of epidemic as compared to herbs.
- Antiviral drugs are prescription drugs whereas antiviral
herbs are over- the- counter medications which can be obtained
without any prescription.
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