A systematic review and meta-analysis of some traditional Indian remedies against dengue

Dengue is a life-threatening viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), transmitted to humans through the infected mosquito’s bite. No specific treatment for dengue and symptomatic relief is the only option available.

Present study is performed to find out the role of some traditional Indian remedies in the treatment of dengue virus infection.

The study was conducted as per the PRISMA guidelines. The relevant studies were searched and sorted based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. The pooled estimate was calculated as mean difference with 95% confidence interval. A random effect model was used and publication bias was assessed qualitatively.

The overall estimate measure i.e. mean difference [MD = 19.50; 95% confidence interval [1.82–37.18]; P = 0.03] which indicates a significant increase in platelet counts after treatment with Carica papaya extract as compared to the control group. The period of hospitalization was also significantly decreased in Carica papaya extract group as compared to the control group [MD = 1.85; 95% CI (1.41–2.28); P < 0.00001]. Andrographis paniculata, Tinospora cordifolia, and goat milk have shown promising effects under preclinical studies against DENV infections, however, clinical studies are not available.

C. papaya, A. paniculata, T. cordifolia and goat milk have potential against DENV infections, however, a greater number of studies are required to confirm the exact role of these traditional Indian remedies particularly Andrographis paniculata, Tinospora cordifolia and goat milk.