In a significant breakthrough against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, researchers from the Centre for Genetic Disorders at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) have received an Indian patent (Patent no: 550169) for an innovative Ayurvedic formulation combining the phytomolecules of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Morus alba. This formulation has shown over 95% effectiveness in inhibiting the virus's growth in cell lines, positioning it as a promising candidate for future COVID-19 treatments.

Leveraging the therapeutic properties of these traditional Ayurvedic ingredients, the formulation has demonstrated substantial efficacy in initial studies. The next steps involve testing in animal models, followed by clinical trials to assess its impact on humans.

The patent recognizes a distinguished team led by Prof. Parimal Das, including PhD scholars Prashant Ranjan, Neha, Chandra Devi, and Prashasti Yadav, along with Dr. Garima Jain (Malaviya Post Doctoral Fellow), Dr. Chandana Basu Malick (Wellcome Trust Fellow), and Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Mohapatra (Department of Zoology). This collaborative achievement highlights the potential of Ayurvedic phytomolecules in contemporary medical research.

Prof. Parimal Das remarked, “This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our team. We are optimistic about the formulation’s potential as a natural solution to combat SARS-CoV-2.” The team has also filed two international and two additional Indian patents, with two German patents already granted for similar work. This latest Indian patent underscores their relentless efforts, which began during the early pandemic days, providing a potential pathway for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 growth.

This groundbreaking discovery, rooted in Ayurvedic science, offers hope in the ongoing global battle against the pandemic and highlights the commitment of young researchers dedicated to this vital project.