Cardamom compound found to boost antiviral defense

New research has found that components in cardamom seed extract show significant antiviral properties. The effects were tested on human lung cells, which revealed the extract activates certain sensors that produce cytokines, which are essential for viral infection defense. 

The publication in Foods found that the bioactive 1,8-cineole, in particular, enhances the production of type I interferons (cytokines) through intracellular nucleic acid sensors. 

Bioactive compounds can interfere with viruses at different stages of their life cycle to alter the body’s immune response to the infection, explain the researchers from Shinshu University, Japan.

“Cardamom has historically been widely used as a spice with medicinal properties, but based on these findings, it is expected that it can be utilized as an antiviral material to prevent a wide range of viral infections,” explains study co-author Dr. Takeshi Kawahara, associate professor at Shinshu University. 

“We hope that this research will provide a new perspective on the antiviral properties of food and create an opportunity to focus attention on a wider range of food ingredients that can help prevent viral infections in daily life.”

Protection from various viruses

Lead researcher Abdullah Al Sufian Shuvo, a doctoral candidate, studied Elettaria cardamomum and found that activated intracellular nucleic acid sensors can recognize DNA and RNA molecules from viruses.

The report reveals that plant food materials and their active components can enhance type I interferon induction through specific signaling pathways, which act as intracellular nucleic acid sensors. This may potentially inhibit influenza viruses and various other viral infections.

“We have been researching food ingredients that can prevent viral infections in our daily life since before the emergence of the novel coronavirus,” says Kawahara.

“The [COVID-19] pandemic has increased society’s focus on the antiviral properties of food, which has led to more opportunities for us to engage in this research.”

Spices and immunity boosters

Separate findings from a recent study on another common kitchen spice revealed the benefits of caraway, which produces CBD alternatives. Researchers posit that it can create safer, more affordable, and more effective treatments for childhood seizure disorders than current frontline therapies.

Nutrition Insight recently spoke to Kirin about its immune-boosting first hot beverage featuring Lactococcus lactis Plasma, which revealed that consumer need for functional beverages has risen, indicating the growing awareness of holistic health.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, consumer demand for immune support has become a year-round lifestyle priority. We recently spoke to experts from Novonesis, Synergy Flavours, and Tirlán to learn about gut-focused solutions, multifunctional ingredients, and taste-driven products that merge science, convenience, and holistic well-being for immunity.