A blend of herbal extracts and minerals could offer a ray of hope for the millions struggling with the debilitating effects of long COVID.
A new study suggests that a simple, inexpensive supplement containing echinacea, rosehip, zinc, and royal jelly may help to alleviate the chronic inflammation and crushing fatigue that have become a reality for nearly 17 million adults in the United States currently battling long COVID.
Simple Remedy
While pinpointing the precise symptoms of long COVID can be challenging, many patients grapple with fatigue and chronic inflammation.After eight weeks, the research team found that the long COVID patients taking the supplement showed a statistically significant reduction in several inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio. This decrease in biomarkers translated into a “substantial reduction” in the chronic inflammation experienced by these patients, according to the researchers.
The team also noted a significant increase in vitamin D levels among the supplement group. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in immune function and the body’s ability to overcome inflammation.
Medicinal Use
Echinacea, a purple and pink coneflower, is used in herbal remedies to treat or prevent upper respiratory infections. There is evidence showing that the herb may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, with some studies suggesting that it may be effective as an antagonist against COVID-19.Rosehip, a widespread wild plant, has been traditionally used to treat a variety of diseases because of its antioxidant effects. Many compounds found in rosehips are also known for their anticancer properties.
Rosehip is used in the management of myriad diseases, including skin disorders, renal disorders, diarrhea, inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, and cancer.
Royal jelly, a substance secreted by the glands of bees, offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Help With Autoimmune Diseases
The results of the study suggest that this cocktail of herbal supplements could be beneficial for individuals suffering from other conditions characterized by chronic inflammation.The research team noted, for example, that vitamin D supplementation has been extensively studied as a potential remedy for patients with autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Type 1 diabetes, and Crohn’s disease.
“An improvement in vitamin D serum levels appears to be correlated with a reduction in fatigue,” the research team wrote. Fatigue is often a secondary characteristic of many autoimmune conditions.
