Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cistus, particularly Cistus incanus, has been investigated for its potential antiviral properties, including activity against influenza viruses. Several in vitro studies have demonstrated that extracts from Cistus species can inhibit the replication of influenza viruses, likely due to polyphenolic compounds that interfere with viral attachment and entry into host cells. For example, research published in "Antiviral Research" (2007) indicated that a standardized extract of Cistus incanus was able to prevent infection by various influenza virus strains in cell cultures. Another study (Droebner et al., 2011, Antiviral Research) showed that Cistus extract reduced viral loads in infected mice and improved survival rates. The proposed mechanism involves direct binding to viral surface proteins, thus blocking the virus from attaching to host cells.

However, clinical evidence in humans is limited. A small number of randomized controlled trials have looked at Cistus-containing lozenges for upper respiratory tract infections, reporting some reduction in symptom severity and duration, but these studies often include mixed etiologies (not influenza-specific) and have methodological limitations. No large-scale, high-quality clinical trials have confirmed Cistus efficacy specifically for influenza prevention or treatment in humans. Thus, while there is promising preclinical (laboratory) data and limited early clinical evidence, robust clinical validation is lacking, and the overall evidence is considered weak to moderate.

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