COVID-19 prevention and management: Potential applications of humic substances

• Published in: Integrative Medicine Case Reports 2021, Vol.2 (2), p.61
• Main Authors: Koul, Diksha, Khosla, Jasmine K., Manhas, Ravi S., Chander, Devtulya, Chaubey, Asha
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2582-6255; 2582-6255
• DOI: 10.38205/imcr.020261

Background: COVID-19 pandemic has forced the human population to rethink over the lifestyle and food habits being followed by them. During the current scenario, when cases of more virulent new strain are emerging and specific treatment are still underway, we must look back to the Darvin’s theory of “Survival of the fittest” and in order to sustain the pandemic, we must follow the rule “Prevention is better than cure”. Traditional Medicinal System can bring possible solution including prevention and control of COVID-19. Humic substances have been used for antiviral activities, signifying that it has potential applications in the management and prevention of infectious diseases. Summary: Present article is focused on the assessment of the naturally occurring humic substances, which are major constituents of Shilajit, being used in traditional system of medicine and can be used against for the prevention of COVID-19. Key message: Humic substances not only improve the immune system, but also have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral activities against human RNA viruses. Therefore, while the entire world is preparing to deal with alarming threat of community spread of COVID-19, Humic substances may play a vital role in improving the innate immunity for prevention and management of SARS-CoV-2 infection