Vikas C. Roy* and Rajni Bala
Respiratory tract infections encompass a range of infections impacting different parts of the respiratory system. These are broadly categorized into Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTI), which involve the nose, sinuses, and throat, or lower respiratory tract infections, affecting the airways and lungs. Influenza, often referred to as the "flu," is a highly contagious viral infection predominantly caused by influenza viruses is one of an URTI. This review focuses on anti-influenza effects of honey highlighting key findings from various studies. In-vitro research demonstrates that honey, particularly Castanea crenata and Tilia amurensis, significantly reduces influenza virus replication in cell models and enhances immune response mechanisms. The studies highlighted the activation of the IFN signaling pathway as a crucial mechanism. This involves the stimulation of JAK-STAT signaling pathway, leading to the formation of the ISGF3 transcription factor complex. Honey was found to boost the immune response by increasing the production of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-β) and enhancing the expression of Interferon-Inducible Transmembrane Protein (IFITM3), a key player in obstructing viral entry. Clinical studies showed that honey, in various forms, could alleviate symptoms of URTIs like cough and sleeping difficulties, likely due to its anti-viral properties. All these findings suggest the potential of honey as a natural, effective treatment for influenza. However, human studies are limited, with existing Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) focusing on Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI) symptoms like cough, not specifically influenza. Future research should not only include double-blind RCTs involving adults and children but also further in-vitro studies to explore different honey types and mechanisms related to treatment of influenza.
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Journal of Pharmacognosy & Natural Products received 606 citations as per Google Scholar report
