Research progress in the inhibitory mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine therapies against influenza A - Report - MDSpire

Research progress in the inhibitory mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine therapies against influenza A

  • By

  • Mingjiang Liu

  • Shitong Han

  • Ninghao Shi

  • Tao Zhang

  • Chenglong Yu

  • Chen Mei

  • Xiaolong Xu

  • May 5, 2026

  • 0 min

Share

Clinical Report: Advancements in Understanding TCM Mechanisms Against Influenza A

Overview

This report reviews the antiviral mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) against Influenza A virus (IAV), highlighting its potential in prevention and treatment. The findings suggest that TCM may offer significant immunomodulatory effects and contribute to novel therapeutic strategies alongside conventional antiviral drugs.

Background

Influenza A virus (IAV) poses a significant public health threat due to its high transmissibility and potential for severe respiratory illness. Current treatment options primarily rely on antiviral medications, which can lead to resistance and high costs. TCM has a historical role in managing influenza, emphasizing holistic approaches that may enhance immune function and reduce complications.

Data Highlights

This article is a narrative review and does not contain specific numerical data or trial results.

Key Findings

  • TCM has historically contributed to influenza prevention and treatment in China.
  • Modern research shows that TCM formulations exhibit antiviral and immunomodulatory effects against IAV.
  • Understanding the mechanisms of TCM can lead to novel approaches in influenza prevention and control.
  • TCM emphasizes holistic treatment and syndrome differentiation, which may alleviate symptoms and complications.
  • Active components of TCM can influence the viral life cycle, offering multi-targeted therapeutic strategies.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should consider the integration of TCM approaches in managing influenza, particularly in populations at risk of complications. Understanding TCM's mechanisms may enhance current antiviral strategies and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The exploration of TCM's antiviral mechanisms against IAV presents promising avenues for enhancing influenza prevention and treatment strategies. Continued research is essential to fully integrate these findings into clinical practice.

References

  1. The Journal of Infectious Diseases, Overview and Recent Developments in Influenza Treatment Options, 2023 -- Overview and Recent Developments in Influenza Treatment Options
  2. The Journal of Infectious Diseases, Techniques for Assessing Antiviral Resistance in Influenza in Laboratory Settings, 2023 -- Techniques for Assessing Antiviral Resistance in Influenza in Laboratory Settings
  3. The Journal of Infectious Diseases, Antiviral Strategies for Influenza Prevention and Management in Immunocompromised Patients, 2023 -- Antiviral Strategies for Influenza Prevention and Management in Immunocompromised Patients
  4. The Journal of Infectious Diseases, Application of Antiviral Medications for Influenza During Pandemic Situations, 2023 -- Application of Antiviral Medications for Influenza During Pandemic Situations
  5. Influenza Antiviral Medications: Summary for Clinicians | Influenza (Flu) | CDC, 2023 -- Influenza Antiviral Medications: Summary for Clinicians
  6. [Interpretation of 'Clinical practice guidelines for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza in China (2025 edition)'] - PubMed, 2023 -- Interpretation of 'Clinical practice guidelines for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza in China (2025 edition)'
  7. Influenza Antiviral Medications: Summary for Clinicians | Influenza (Flu) | CDC
  8. [Interpretation of "Clinical practice guidelines for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza in China (2025 edition)"] - PubMed

Original Source(s)

Related Content