How Oregano Oil Fights Viral Infections in the Body and in the Lab

Jenn Hoskins
18th July, 2024

How Oregano Oil Fights Viral Infections in the Body and in the Lab

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • Recent research from Sichuan Agricultural University explored oregano essential oil as a new antiviral agent against the Pseudorabies Virus (PRV)
  • Oregano essential oil significantly reduced PRV load in tissues, lessened tissue damage, and improved survival rates in infected mice
  • Carvacrol, a key component of oregano essential oil, was identified as the most effective in reducing PRV proliferation and enhancing immune responses
The Pseudorabies Virus (PRV) is a significant pathogen affecting the pig industry, causing reproductive failures, nervous disorders, and respiratory distress, leading to substantial economic losses[2]. Traditional vaccines, such as the attenuated Bartha-K61 strain, have been effective in controlling the disease. However, the emergence of novel PRV variants has reduced the efficacy of these vaccines, particularly in countries like China[3]. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of effective medications to halt the spread of PRV infections[4]. Recent research conducted by Sichuan Agricultural University has explored the potential of oregano essential oil as a novel antiviral agent against PRV, offering new hope for disease management[1]. The study assessed the anti-PRV activity of oregano essential oil, focusing on its mechanisms and the most effective components. In vivo experiments demonstrated that oregano essential oil could significantly reduce the PRV load in tissues, mitigate tissue lesions, and improve the survival rate of infected mice. These findings suggest that oregano essential oil enhances both humoral and cellular immune responses in PRV-infected mice. To identify the most effective components of oregano essential oil, an in vitro study was conducted. The results revealed that oregano essential oil and its main constituents, carvacrol and thymol, all reduced PRV intracellular proliferation. Among these, carvacrol exhibited the most potent anti-PRV effect, indicating that it is the primary contributor to the oil's antiviral activity. The underlying mechanisms of carvacrol's efficacy include the upregulation of cytokines such as TNF-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ, and IL-12, which are crucial for immune responses, and the inhibition of PRV-induced apoptosis in BHK-21 cells. These findings are significant as they provide a new avenue for PRV prevention and control. The study's results align with previous research highlighting the need for novel therapeutic agents to combat PRV infections[4]. For instance, quercetin, a flavonoid with known antiviral properties, has been shown to inhibit various PRV strains effectively[4]. The discovery of carvacrol's potent anti-PRV activity adds another natural product to the list of potential therapeutic agents, broadening the scope of available treatments. Moreover, this study builds on earlier findings regarding the zoonotic potential of PRV variants and their impact on public health[3]. The ability of oregano essential oil to enhance immune responses and reduce viral loads could be particularly relevant in managing PRV infections in both animals and potentially humans, given the virus's broad host range[5]. The study's implications extend beyond the pig industry, offering insights into the development of antiviral strategies against other herpesviruses. In conclusion, the research conducted by Sichuan Agricultural University provides compelling evidence for the efficacy of oregano essential oil and its components, particularly carvacrol, in combating PRV infections. These findings offer a promising new approach to PRV prevention and control, addressing the limitations of existing vaccines and medications. By enhancing immune responses and inhibiting viral proliferation, oregano essential oil could play a crucial role in managing PRV outbreaks and mitigating their economic impact.

HerbsMedicineBiochem

References

Main Study

1) Evaluation of the activity and mechanisms of oregano essential oil against PRV in vivo and in vitro.

Published 15th July, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106791

Related Studies

2) Pseudorabies Virus: From Pathogenesis to Prevention Strategies.

https://doi.org/10.3390/v14081638

3) A Review of Pseudorabies Virus Variants: Genomics, Vaccination, Transmission, and Zoonotic Potential.

https://doi.org/10.3390/v14051003

4) Quercetin as an antiviral agent inhibits the Pseudorabies virus in vitro and in vivo.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virusres.2021.198556

5) Human viral encephalitis associated with suid herpesvirus 1.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-021-05633-0


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