Title : Can essential oils from patchouli and harmal help combat airborne viruses? A preliminary in vitro study?
Abstract:
Invisible airborne viruses, from crowded commutes to simple coughs, pose a significant global health threat, as exemplified by COVID-19 and influenza. This study explores the potential of plant-derived compounds (bioactives) from essential oils of Pogostemon cablin (Patchouli) and Peganum harmala (Harmala) to combat these viruses. We will evaluate the antiviral activity of a combination of isolated bioactives from these essential oils using in vitro assays with well-established surrogate model viruses, Bacteriophage MS2 and Phi 10. This safe and controlled environment allows us to assess the ability of these plant-derived materials to inactivate airborne viruses. We anticipate observing a dose-dependent antiviral effect with minimal cytotoxicity. Additionally, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity testing will be conducted to ensure the safety profile of these essential oils and active compounds. This research investigates a novel approach using bioactives from Patchouli and Harmal essential oils to combat airborne viruses, and positive results would pave the way for further exploration of these compounds as potential antiviral therapeutics.
