Thuja occidentalis: An Unexplored Phytomedicine with Therapeutic Applications

Abstract

Background: The recent outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 has received global attention. Due to a lack of recommended treatment regimens, the world faced various limitations resulting in improper management of the disease. Phytomedicines have played a prominent role in the prevention of various epidemics and pandemics in the past.

Objective: Here, we attempt to focus on safe and feasible use of Thuja occidentalis to manage and alleviate the panic of viral respiratory infections, including COVID-19, by strengthening an individual's immunity. The relevant information was collected from the web-based databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE, as well as other internet sources to review the applicability of T. occidentalis as a phytomedicine in managing respiratory infections and strengthening immunity.

Conclusion: As important phytomedicine, and antipsychotic, T. occidentalis possesses a plethora of immunological properties that can be used effectively in the management of viral respiratory infections and has the potential to prevent further progression of the disease. Importantly, this could be only a part of the approach for treatment during the current outbreak that should be considered along with other measures.

Keywords: COVID-19; Phytomedicine; Thuja occidentalis; antiviral; immunity; immunomodulatory; upper respiratory infection.