Inhibitory Activity Of Concoction Of Three Medicinal Plants Carica Papaya, Punica Granatum, Magnifera Indica Leaf Extract Against DENV-2

Abstract

Introduction:

Dengue is a flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes, causing significant global health burdens. Despite being preventable, there is no universally effective antiviral treatment or vaccine for dengue. Current vaccines like CYD-TDV (Dengvaxia®) have limitations, particularly in seronegative individuals. Traditional medicinal plants such as Carica papaya, Punica granatum and Mangifera indica  have shown potential against dengue, enhancing platelet counts and exhibiting antiviral properties. This study investigates the combined inhibitory effects of these plants' extracts against dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV-2) in in vitro settings.

Materials and Methods:

Methanolic extracts of *Carica papaya*, *Punica granatum*, and *Mangifera indica* leaves were prepared and tested on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and Vero cells. Extracts were diluted to varying concentrations, and their cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay. The antiviral activity of the individual extracts and their combination was tested against DENV-2 infection in Vero cells. Statistical analysis was performed using One-Way ANOVA to assess the significance of the results.

Results:

The extracts of Carica papaya,Punica granatum and Mangifera indica showed dose-dependent inhibition of DENV-2 replication in Vero cells. The combined plant extract (concoction) exhibited a synergistic antiviral effect, surpassing the individual efficacy of each extract. Cytotoxicity assays confirmed that the extracts were non-toxic to PBMCs at antiviral concentrations, with the concoction showing safe cytotoxic levels.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates the antiviral potential of combining Carica papaya, Punica granatum, and Mangifera indica extracts against DENV-2. The findings highlight the potential for a plant-based treatment, offering a promising avenue for future dengue therapies.