Plant-based approach to combating Dengue Fever: Active compounds, Immunotargets and Mechanism of actions

Background: Dengue fever remains a global health threat, particularly in tropical regions, with no effective vaccines or antiviral treatments available. This review explores plant-based therapies as a promising approach to manage dengue by focusing on bioactive compounds, immunotargets, and mechanisms of action. Aim: The review aims to explore the therapeutic potential of phytomedicines in dengue management, highlighting their antiviral and immune-modulating effects, and addressing the challenges in clinical application. Methods: In this review, a comprehensive literature search was conducted, sourcing peer-reviewed articles on medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds in relation to dengue fever. The review analyzes the interaction of these compounds with key immunotargets and their mechanisms in alleviating dengue symptoms. Results: Plants such as Andrographis paniculata, Azadirachta indica, Carica papaya, Curcuma longa, Tinospora cordifolia, and Euphorbia hirta contain bioactive compounds like flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and saponins. These compounds inhibit viral replication, modulate immune responses, and target critical immunotargets, including viral proteins and cytokine production. For example, quercetin suppresses viral replication, while berberine reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines, potentially reducing dengue complications. Terpenoids, with their anti-inflammatory properties, can mitigate excessive immune activation. Saponins may enhance antiviral defenses, lowering viral load and disease severity. Conclusion: Phytomedicines offer significant potential as adjunct therapies for dengue, with antiviral and immune-modulating properties. However, challenges related to standardization, quality control, and variability in active compound concentrations must be addressed to ensure their clinical application. Integrating phytomedicines with conventional therapies may provide effective and sustainable strategies for managing dengue globally.