Title: TCM'S intervention and effects on COVID-19: Introducing the few most commonly used concoctions during treatment

Abstract

The use of Chinese medicine in the treatment of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), also known as Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia (NCP) in China, has been successful, with reduced mortality, increased remissions from severe to moderate and increased number of recoveries. With Chinese medicine playing a key role, clinical observation reported a total effective rate of >90%. A few of the commonly used Chinese medicine formula are selected for discussion. Among them, Lung cleansing & detoxifying decoction (LCDD), a combination of classical prescriptions, is identified as one of the most effective based on its broad-based suitability for light, moderate and severe patients. The effects of these decoctions are evaluated based on clinical manifestations; Lab findings such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, procalcitonin, D-dimer, lymphocytes and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-a, IL-1b, IL-6, IL-8); Pathogenic findings of NCP nucleic acid (using RT-PCR) from lower respiratory tract secretions and blood; Serological findings on NCP virus specific IgM, IgG; Chest imaging particularly focusing on multiple ground glass opacities and infiltration in both lungs. Network pharmacology-based analysis revealed positive results on active ingredients of Chinese herbal medicine, particularly LCDD, used in NCP. In silico screening of Chinese herbal medicines via ADME filter, top 30 KEGG-enriched pathways were related to regulating viral infection, immune/ inflammatory reactions and hypoxia response, indicating that they are potentially effective treatments for viral respiratory infection. Effects says it all. However, due diligence is recommended to individual agencies/countries when implementing Chinese medicine for reasons such as availability, susceptibility, and acceptance.

Biography

Steven Loh is a registered TCM physician/acupuncturist (Singapore), Registered doctor (Chinese Medicine) in China, Senior Physician at NTU Chinese Medicine Clinic, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, adjunct doctor at XianCi Chinese Medicine Nephrology Hospital. Dr Loh obtained his Doctorate in Clinical Medicine from Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine. His clinical interest and experience include: Coronary Heart Diseases, Geriatrics, Stroke Recovery and Aftercare, Renal Disorder, Sports Injuries, Pain Management, Hyperhidrosis, Insomnia.