ABSTRACT
Natural products derived from medicinal plants have been an invaluable source of antiviral compounds throughout history. With the increasing interest in natural products as a potential solution to the urgent need for new antiviral drugs, exploring future directions in this field is essential. Natural products offer various chemical structures and biological activities, making them attractive candidates for drug development. They have been used in traditional medicines for centuries and have been the basis for developing many modern drugs. However, challenges and limitations, such as standardization, side effects, limited understanding of mechanisms of action, limited availability, and the development of resistance, must be carefully addressed. Future perspectives in antiviral natural product research include the identification of novel compounds using advanced analytical and screening technologies, understanding the mechanisms of action to optimize and tailor therapies, developing combination therapies to enhance antiviral activity and reduce resistance, improving bioavailability for better efficacy, and integrating with other therapeutic approaches. These future directions hold great promise in the fight against viral infections and can lead to the development of safe and effective antiviral drugs. A better understanding of the potential of natural products and the challenges associated with their use will pave the way for innovative discoveries and the realization of their full potential in antiviral chemotherapy.
