Carnosol from Rosemary Shows Antiviral Activity Against Influenza A Virus in Study

A recent study suggests that carnosol, a natural compound found in rosemary, exhibits antiviral properties against the Influenza A virus (IAV). The research indicates that carnosol can disrupt the virus and inhibit its replication. The study demonstrated carnosol's effectiveness against the H1N1 strain using cell cultures and mouse models. The compound damaged the virus's outer envelope, preventing it from infecting host cells. Additionally, carnosol interfered with the Jak2/STAT3 signaling pathway, reducing inflammation and hindering viral replication. In mice infected with IAV, carnosol treatment led to higher survival rates and reduced lung damage, comparable to the effects of oseltamivir, a common antiviral drug. The findings suggest carnosol's potential as a therapeutic option for influenza, particularly for drug-resistant strains.