Clinical Outcomes of a Treatment for Mild Cases of COVID-19 using a Polyherbal Concoction based on Thai Traditional Medicine: A Retrospective Chart Review

Abstract

Dating back to the COVID-19 pandemic, herbal medicine gained prominence as a potential means of managing the virus. However, published evidence supporting its efficacy remains limited. Vaccines and antiviral drugs undoubtedly constitute the primary defense against viral threats. However, herbal medicine remains a viable option for management in addressing future viral outbreaks. This study undertakes a retrospective analysis of 101 charts of patients who solely used an herbal concoction based on Thai traditional medicine for COVID-19 treatment in a local clinic. The concoction comprised a combination of 13herbs selected from two distinct formulas, Ya-ha-rak, Prasaporhyai, and other herbs. The findings indicate no fatality or health complications associated with the treatment. Concerning clinical outcome, nearly all patients achieved negative laboratory results for COVID-19 in less than two weeks, except for two individuals whose conditions did not improve within a two-week timeframe. These two patients opted to discontinue the current treatment to pursue alternative therapies. Notably, none exhibited pneumonia symptoms. Thus, this herbal approach seems safe and beneficial for mild COVID-19 cases. This is the first human clinical report on the antiviral properties of a formulation comprising principal medicinal plants sourced from Ya-ha-rak and Prasaporhyai. This study, though constrained by its inability to distinguish between patients who could recover without necessitating medical intervention, was conducted with the aspiration that it will trigger further advancement and investigations into the efficacy and safety of antiviral herbs, thereby enhancing our understanding and utilization of these natural resources.