ASSESSMENT OF THE APPLICABILITY OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL PLANTS AGAINST THE EFFECTS OF COVID-19 INFECTION

This research investigates the utilization of traditional medicinal plants during the COVID-19 pandemic among Indian youths.A cross-sectional survey of 335 participants reveals high usage (86.6%) of plants like Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), Zingiber officinale (Ginger), Tinospora cordifolia (Giloy), and Azadirachta indica (Neem), primarily consumed as tea (65.1%).The study highlights strong community beliefs in the safety and efficacy of these plants (89.3%) over conventional treatments, influenced by traditional knowledge and online sources.Challenges include limited access to accurate usage information (21.2%).These findings emphasize the cultural significance and potential benefits of integrating traditional medicine into evidence-based healthcare strategies for managing global health crises like COVID-19.