Recently, information circulated that eucalyptus can cure COVID-19 patients. Is it true that this plant is able to fight the Corona virus? Find the answer here so that you are wiser in responding to the news.
Use eucalyptus as a drug is already familiar. Eucalyptus It has been used in the medical world for a long time. Recent research has even revealed that this plant has properties as antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-pain.
Eucalyptus Can Treat COVID-19, Myth or Fact?
In herbal medicine, eucalyptus believed to be effective in treating various diseases, such as asthma, sinusitis, bronchitis, gingivitis. This plant can also be used as a wound cleanser and controlling blood sugar levels.
To be used as medicine, leaves eucalyptus must be dried first. After drying, the leaves will go through a distillation process to produce oil. Later, this oil is commonly used as herbal medicine.
Although eucalyptus has often been used in herbal medicine to treat the diseases above, the use of eucalyptus to treat COVID-19 disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has not been proven.
Oil eucalyptus contains an active compound named eucalyptol. This compound is thought to be able to inhibit the activity of Mpro, an enzyme in the Corona virus that plays a role in its breeding process. By inhibiting this enzyme, the growth of the Corona virus is also inhibited.
Although the theory seems convincing, research on a larger scale is still needed to confirm it. In addition, the effectiveness of the compound eucalyptol in the human body is also not so clear.
Warnings for the Use of Herbal Medicines to Treat COVID-19
There are no studies that reveal for sure that certain plants can cure infections caused by the Corona virus. So, you need to be more critical and careful if you want to take herbal medicines that claim to cure COVID-19. Make sure you consult with your doctor before using any medicine, including herbal medicine.
Not all herbal medicines are safe for consumption, especially if they have not passed trials from the government. You also need to be extra careful if you have a history of certain diseases or are taking certain types of drugs on a regular basis.
Herbal medicines may be used to maintain a healthy body and indirectly prevent the occurrence of COVID-19. Even so, keep doing basic COVID-19 prevention efforts, such as washing your hands, not touching your face with unwashed hands, applying physical distancing, as well as wearing a mask in every activity, especially in public places.
If you feel unwell or experience complaints that are similar to the initial symptoms of COVID-19, immediately self-isolate and consult a doctor for direction. You can use the ALODOKTER application for: chat directly with a doctor or make an appointment with a doctor at the hospital.
