Indian patent for Ayurvedic formula that checks SARS virus 95%

Varanasi: In a major breakthrough in the global fight against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a team of researchers from the Centre for Genetic Disorders at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has been awarded patent for a ground-breaking formulation that combines the phytomolecules of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Morus alba. The patented formulation has demonstrated over 95% effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in cell lines, positioning it as a promising candidate for future Covid-19 treatments.
The patent has been awarded to a distinguished team of researchers led by Prof Parimal Das, along with Prashant Ranjan, Neha, Chandra Devi, Dr Garima Jain, Prashasti Yadav, Dr Chandana Basu Malick, and Dr Bhagyalaxmi Mohapatra.Das said the team had also applied for two international and two Indian patents, with two German patents already granted for similar work. The Indian patent is latest recognition of the team's efforts, which began during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic.
He said the patented formulation leveraged the therapeutic properties of Ashwagandha and Morus alba, long used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. The natural innovation has already proved highly effective in cell line studies, achieving more than 95% inhibition of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The next steps in research include testing the formulation in animal models (mice), followed by clinical trials to evaluate its efficacy in humans.
"The achievement is a testament to dedication and hard work of our research team. We are proud of the progress we've made and optimistic about potential of this formula to offer an effective, natural solution to the SARS-CoV-2," said Das, adding that this ground-breaking discovery, rooted in Ayurvedic science, represented a beacon of hope in continued global efforts to control the pandemic and underlined the hard work and dedication of young PhD scholars and researchers who have been committed to this project since early days of Covid-19.