TOP antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial herbs

Herbs have long been used in medicine to treat various diseases, including viral and inflammatory. In this article, we will look at the TOP herbs that have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

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TOP 19 antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial herbs

Oregano

Oregano

Oregano is a herbaceous plant in the Lamiaceae family that is known for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Oregano contains many beneficial components, including carvacrol, thymol and rosmarinic acid, which can help fight various viruses and inflammatory processes.

The carvacrol found in oregano is a powerful antimicrobial agent and can help fight bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Oregano oil and carvacrol exhibit antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 1, rotavirus, which is a common cause of diarrhea in infants and children, and respiratory syncytial virus, which causes respiratory infections.

Thymol is another powerful antimicrobial agent that can help fight a variety of illnesses, including flu and colds. It can also help improve the function of the respiratory system and relieve coughing.

Rosmarinic acid is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent that can help fight inflammation in the body and improve overall health.

Oregano can be consumed in the form of tea, essential oil, or added to various dishes to enhance the taste and aroma.

How to use oregano (recipe)

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
  • 250 ml of boiling water

Preparation:

  1. Take dried or fresh oregano and place in a cup or mug.
  2. Pour boiling water over the oregano and let it brew under the lid for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Strain the tincture through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove any grass residue.
  4. The finished tincture can be consumed 1/4 cup 3-4 times a day before meals.

Basil

basil

Basil is a plant that is known for its medicinal properties. Basil contains many beneficial components, including eugenol, linalol, and beta-carotene, which have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Many types of basil can fight some viral infections: herpes virus, hepatitis B and enterovirus. In a study on 24 healthy volunteers, the use of 300 mg of basil extract significantly increased the level of immune cells that help protect the body from viral infections.

Method of application of basil (recipe)

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
  • 250 ml of boiling water

Preparation:

  1. Take dried or fresh basil and put it in a cup or mug.
  2. Pour boiling water over the basil and let it brew under the lid for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Strain the broth through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove any grass residue.
  4. The finished broth can be consumed 1/4 cup 3-4 times a day before meals.

Fennel

fennel

Fennel is a herbaceous plant of the umbrella family, which has medicinal effects such as antiviral and anti-inflammatory. Fennel contains many beneficial components, including essential oils, antioxidants and vitamins, which can help fight various viruses and inflammatory processes. A test-tube study showed that fennel extract has a strong antiviral effect against herpes and parainfluenza viruses.

Antioxidants, also found in fennel, can help protect the body from harmful free radicals. They also help reduce inflammation levels in the body and improve overall health.

Vitamins, including vitamins A and C, strengthen the immune system.

Fennel can be consumed in the form of tea, added to soups and salads, and also used as a spice in the preparation of various dishes.

Method of application of fennel (recipe)

Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
  • 250 ml of water

Preparation:

  1. Take fennel seeds and rub them thoroughly in a mortar to highlight the flavor and active ingredients.
  2. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
  3. Add the crushed fennel seeds to the boiling water, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Remove the pan from the heat and let the broth brew under the lid for 10 minutes.
  5. Strain the broth through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove any seed residue.
  6. The finished broth can be consumed 1/4 cup 3-4 times a day before meals.

Melissa

Melissa is known for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Lemon balm contains many beneficial components, including essential oils, flavonoids and rosmarinic acid, which can help fight various viruses and inflammatory processes.

Lemon balm essential oil is a powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent.

Flavonoids have antioxidant properties and may help strengthen the immune system. They will also help reduce the level of inflammation in the body. In a test-tube study, lemon balm leaf extract exhibited potent antiviral activity against respiratory syncytial virus and significantly reduced levels of inflammatory compounds.

How to use lemon balm (recipe)

Lemon balm can be prepared in the form of tea. To do this, take 1-2 teaspoons of dry lemon balm or fresh leaves, pour 200-250 ml of boiling water and leave for 10-15 minutes. Then strain the infusion and can be consumed hot or cold throughout the day. You can add honey or lemon to improve the taste and enhance the anti-inflammatory effect.

Sage

Sage is a herbaceous plant from the family Lamiaceae. Sage contains many useful substances, such as tannins, flavonoids, essential oils, etc. These substances have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The antiviral properties of sage are mainly attributed to two diterpenoids found in the leaves and stem of the plant. Test-tube studies show that this herb can fight human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), which can lead to AIDS. Sage has also been shown to be active against herpes simplex virus type 1 and Indiana vesiculovirus, which infects farm animals such as horses, cows, and pigs.

Sage may help fight upper respiratory tract infections such as colds and flu due to its antiviral properties. This is because sage contains substances that can stop the growth of viruses and kill them. Sage can also help reduce inflammation in the throat and improve breathing.

How to use sage leaves (recipe)

Place 1 tablespoon of sage leaves in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml of hot boiled water, close the lid and insist on a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Cool at room temperature for 45 minutes, strain, squeeze the rest until strained infusion. Bring the volume of infusion with boiled water to 200 ml.

Mint

Mint is a fragrant herbaceous plant in the Lamiaceae family that contains many beneficial components, such as menthol, terpenes, and flavonoids, which can help fight various viruses and inflammatory processes.

Menthol contained in mint is a powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent that can fight bacterial and viral infections, as well as reduce inflammation in the body, help improve the functioning of the respiratory and digestive systems.

Terpenes, also found in mint, are another class of powerful antimicrobials. In a study of the virucidal action of mint, it was proved that the essential oil can have a direct virucidal effect on the herpes simplex virus, including the acyclovir-resistant strain.

How to use peppermint leaves (recipe)

Place 1 tablespoon of peppermint leaves in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml of hot boiled water, close the lid and insist on a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Cool at room temperature for 45 minutes, strain, squeeze the rest until strained infusion. Bring the volume of infusion with boiled water to 200 ml.

Take in the form of heat 2-3 times a day 15 minutes before meals: adults and children from 14 years old – 1/2-1/3 cup, children aged 12-14 years – 1/4 cup, 7-12 years old – 2 tablespoons, 3-7 years old – 1 tablespoon. Shake the infusion before use.

Rosemary

Rosemary contains many nutrients, including oleanolic acid. Oleanolic acid has shown antiviral activity against herpes viruses, HIV, influenza and hepatitis viruses in animal and test tube studies. In addition, rosemary extract has demonstrated antiviral effects against herpes viruses and hepatitis A, which affects the liver.

How to use rosemary (recipe)

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon dried rosemary (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
  • 250 ml of boiling water

Preparation:

  1. Take dried or fresh rosemary and place in a cup or mug.
  2. Pour boiling water over the rosemary and let it brew under the lid for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Strain the infusion through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove any grass residue.
  4. The finished infusion can be consumed 1/4 cup 3-4 times a day before meals.

Echinacea

Echinacea is one of the most well-known herbs for supporting the immune system and fighting viruses and inflammation. This herb contains many active ingredients, including polysaccharides, alkylamides, and flavonoids, which can strengthen the immune system and fight various diseases.

One of the most studied properties of echinacea is its ability to speed up the healing process from colds, flu and other viral infections. This property is due to the presence of polysaccharides, which can strengthen the immune system and help fight viruses. Echinacea also contains alkylamides, which can reduce inflammation and pain associated with colds and flu. Several test-tube studies have shown that some varieties of echinacea, including E. pallida, E. angustifolia, and E. purpurea, are particularly effective in fighting viral infections such as herpes and influenza.

Method of application of echinacea tincture (recipe)

To achieve a quick effect at the beginning of treatment, adults take 40 drops of echinacea tincture, then another 20 drops for 2 hours. Next, take the drug 20 drops three times a day. The course of treatment is no more than 8 weeks. For children from 12 years of age, tincture should be prescribed in a dilution of 1: 2 or 1: 3, 5-10 drops 2-3 times a day 30 minutes before meals.

Elder

Elderberry is an antiviral and anti-inflammatory berry that has a long history of use in folk medicine to treat various diseases. It contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as essential oils, which have antimicrobial properties.

Elderberry may be useful in treating flu, colds, and other respiratory ailments. Its flavonoids can reduce inflammation in the airways and improve lung function. In addition, elderberry can strengthen the immune system and protect the body from various infections.

A study in mice showed that concentrated elderberry juice inhibits the replication of the influenza virus and stimulates the immune system response. What’s more, a review of 4 studies conducted on 180 people found that elderberry supplements significantly reduced symptoms of upper respiratory tract inflammation caused by viral infections.

Method of application of black elderberry flowers (recipe)

Recommended: place 1.5 tablespoons of elderberry flowers in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml (1 cup) of hot boiled water, close the lid and leave for a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Cool at room temperature for 45 minutes, strain, squeeze the rest until strained infusion. Bring the volume of infusion with boiled water to 200 ml. Prepared water infusion can be stored in the refrigerator (at a temperature of 2-8 ° C) for no more than 2 days. Shake the infusion before taking.

Children aged 3-7 years take 2 dessert spoons in the form of heat, 7-12 years old – 2 tablespoons, 12-16 years old – 1/3 cup 3 times a day after meals. Adults and children from 16 years of age take in the form of heat 1/2 cup 3 times a day or 2 tablespoons 5-6 times a day after meals.

Licorice

Licorice is known for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which can help fight a variety of viruses, including flu and colds. It can also reduce inflammation and reduce pain.

In addition, licorice can strengthen the immune system. It contains phytoncides that can protect the body from harmful bacteria and viruses. Test-tube studies have shown that licorice root extract is effective against HIV, respiratory syncytial virus, herpes viruses, and coronavirus.

Method of application of licorice roots (recipe)

Place 1 tablespoon of licorice roots in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml of hot boiled water, close the lid and insist on a boiling water bath for 30 minutes. Cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, strain, squeeze the remainder into the strained broth. Bring the volume of broth with boiled water to 200 ml. Take in the form of heat 30 minutes before meals: adults and children over 14 years old, 1-2 tablespoons 3-4 times a day, children 12-14 years old – 1 tablespoon 2-3 times a day, children 5-12 years old – 1 dessert spoon 3-4 times a day, children 3-5 years old – 1 dessert spoon 2-3 times a day, children 1-3 years old – 1 teaspoon 2-3 times a day. Shake the broth before use.

Astragal

Astragalus is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to strengthen the immune system and fight various diseases.

Astragalus contains many beneficial components, including polysaccharides, flavonoids and saponins, which can help strengthen the immune system, fight viruses and inflammatory processes.

The polysaccharides contained in astragalus are powerful immunomodulators that can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of various diseases. They can also reduce the level of inflammation in the body.

Saponins can fight bacterial, fungal and viral infections, improve liver and kidney function.

Test-tube and animal studies show that astragalus fights herpes, hepatitis C and avian influenza viruses.

In addition, the herb may protect human astrocyte cells, the most common cell type in the central nervous system, from herpes infection.

Astragalus can be consumed in the form of tea, tablets or capsules, as well as added to soups and salads.

Method of application of astragalus (recipe)

Ingredients:

  • 10-15 g dried astragalus root (cut into small pieces)
  • 500 ml of water

Preparation:

  1. Take the dried astragalus root and place it in a saucepan.
  2. Add 500 ml of water to the pan.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the temperature and simmer for 30-40 minutes.
  4. Remove the pan from the heat and let the broth brew under the lid for 10-15 minutes.
  5. Strain the broth through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove the remnants of the root.
  6. The finished broth can be consumed 1/4 cup 3-4 times a day before meals.

Ginger

Ginger is a spice that is also widely used in medicine due to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger contains gingerol and shogaol – biologically active substances that have a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.

Gingerol may improve digestive function and reduce inflammation, lower blood cholesterol, and strengthen the immune system.

Shogaol, which is formed when ginger is heated, also has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It can reduce pain and reduce inflammation associated with arthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders.

Ginger has good antiviral activity. Ginger substances – gingerol and zingerone block viral replication and prevent the entry of H1N1 influenza viruses (swine flu A) into cells.

Ginger can be consumed in the form of tea, added to soups, sauces and salads.

How to use ginger (recipe)

Ginger tea

Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger or 1/2 teaspoon dried ginger
  • 250 ml of water
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • 1/2 lemon (optional)

Preparation:

  1. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
  2. Add freshly grated or dried ginger to boiling water.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Remove the pan from the heat and let the tea brew under the lid for 5 minutes.
  5. Strain the tea through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove any ginger residue.
  6. Add honey and lemon juice to taste.
  7. Ready-made ginger tea can be consumed hot 3-4 times a day.

Ginseng

Ginseng contains many beneficial components such as ginkgolides, glitteranoids, phytosterols, polysaccharides, which can help strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.

One of the main active components of ginseng – ginkgolides – has an anti-inflammatory effect, improves cerebral circulation and helps reduce stress levels in the body.

In addition, compounds in ginseng have antiviral effects against hepatitis B, norovirus, and Coxsackie virus, which have been linked to several serious diseases, including a brain infection called meningoencephalitis.

Glitteranoids help reduce inflammation in the body, improve cardiovascular function, and lower blood cholesterol levels.

Phytosterols help strengthen the immune system and also reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.

How to use ginseng (recipe)

Ingredients:

  • 5-7 g dried ginseng root (cut into small pieces)
  • 500 ml of water

Preparation:

  1. Take the dried ginseng root and place it in a saucepan.
  2. Add 500 ml of water to the pan.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the temperature and simmer for 30-40 minutes.
  4. Remove the pan from the heat and let the broth brew under the lid for 10-15 minutes.
  5. Strain the broth through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove the remnants of the root.
  6. The finished broth can be consumed 1/4 cup 2-3 times a day before meals.

Dandelion

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. It contains many beneficial components, including vitamin C, potassium, calcium, iron, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which can help strengthen the immune system and fight viral and inflammatory diseases.

Dandelion is a powerful antioxidant that can protect the body from harmful free radicals and prevent the occurrence of a number of diseases. In addition, it can help improve digestive function, relieve symptoms of arthritis and kidney disease, and lower blood cholesterol levels.

Dandelion extract is a common antiviral used in traditional Chinese medicine and has been reported to exhibit antiviral properties against HIV-1, influenza virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and hepatitis B virus.

Dandelion can be consumed in the form of tea, added to salads or used as a spice in the preparation of various dishes. You can also make a tincture or infusion from dandelion, which can improve overall health and fight viruses and inflammatory processes in the body.

Method of application of dandelion (recipe)

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon dried dandelion leaves (or 2 tablespoons fresh leaves)
  • 250 ml of water

Preparation:

  1. Place dried or fresh dandelion leaves in a teapot or mug.
  2. Pour boiling water over the leaves and let it brew under the lid for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Strain the infusion through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove the remaining leaves.
  4. The finished infusion can be consumed 1/4 cup 3-4 times a day before meals.

Oregano

Oregano (Latin: Oríganum vulgáre) contains many beneficial compounds, including essential oil, polyphenols and flavonoids, which help fight infections and reduce inflammation. People have traditionally used oregano oil to maintain respiratory health. It has also become a popular alternative treatment for cold and flu symptoms. A study conducted in 2011 showed that oregano essential oil is able to suppress human and animal viruses in vitro. The researchers noted that this action is most likely due to carvacrol, one of the main compounds in oregano oil. While carvacrol was more effective against some viruses on its own, oregano oil was more effective against respiratory viruses such as influenza viruses.

Polyphenols and flavonoids found in the motherboard also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They help reduce inflammation and protect cells from free radical damage.

Method of application of the motherboard (oregano)

Place 2 tablespoons of oregano herb (motherboard) in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml of hot boiled water, close the lid and insist on a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Cool at room temperature for 45 minutes, strain, squeeze the remainder until strained infusion. Bring the volume of infusion with boiled water to 200 ml. Adults take the infusion in the form of heat 1 cup 3 times a day 15-20 minutes before meals. Children: at the age of 1-3 years – 1 teaspoon, at the age of 3-5 years – 1 dessert spoon, at the age of 5-7 years – 1 tablespoon, at the age of 7-12 years – 2 tablespoons, at the age of 12-14 years – 1/4 cup, at the age of 14 years – 1/3 cup 3 times a day 15-20 minutes before meals.

Calamus rhizomes

Calamus rhizomes contain many beneficial components, including camphor, cineole and eucalyptus oil, which can help fight various viruses and inflammatory processes.

Camphor is a powerful antimicrobial agent and can fight bacterial, fungal and viral infections, help improve respiratory function and relieve pain.

Cineoleum can fight a variety of ailments, including colds, coughs, and bronchitis, help improve respiratory function, and improve overall health.

One Chinese study demonstrated the beneficial properties of the active ingredients of A. calamus for the treatment of infections caused by the dengue virus.

In addition, Acorus calamus l. (Acoraceae) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicinal plant, the root of which has historically been mainly used to treat neurodegenerative diseases and to treat cholera. These data strongly point to the antimicrobial activity of A. calamus.

Method of application of calamus rhizome (recipe)

Place 10 g (1 tablespoon) of calamus rhizomes in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml (1 cup) of hot boiled water, close the lid and insist on a boiling water bath for 30 minutes. Cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, strain, squeeze the remainder until strained broth. Bring the volume of broth with boiled water to 200 ml. Take in the form of heat 3-4 times a day, 30 minutes before meals: adults and children from 14 years old – 1/4 cup, children aged 12-14 years – 2 tablespoons, children 7-12 years old – 1 tablespoon. Shake the broth before taking. The prepared broth in diluted form (diluted with water so that the volume increases by 2-3 times) is used for rinsing the mouth and throat.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus contains eucalyptus oil, which is the main active ingredient and has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

Essential oil and its essential monoterpenes have enormous potential for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases caused by viruses. The main molecular mechanism involved in antiviral activity is direct inactivation, that is, the direct binding of monoterpenes to free viruses, especially to viral proteins involved in entering the host cell, thus avoiding viral infection.

Eucalyptus can help treat respiratory conditions such as coughs, colds, flu, and bronchitis. It is able to reduce the level of inflammation in the body, improve lung function and relieve discomfort associated with breathing.

Eucalyptus can also improve digestion, lower blood sugar, reduce muscle pain and fatigue, and improve circulation.

How to use eucalyptus leaves (recipe)

Place 10 g (2 tablespoons) of eucalyptus leaves in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml (1 cup) of hot boiled water, close the lid and insist on a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Cool at room temperature for 45 minutes, strain, squeeze the remainder until strained infusion. Bring the volume of infusion with boiled water to 200 ml. Shake the infusion before use.

Externally apply for inhalation and rinsing 3-4 times a day: adults and children from 12 years old – 1 tablespoon of infusion diluted in 200 ml of boiled water; children 7-12 years old – 1 dessert spoon of infusion diluted in 200 ml of boiled water; 3-7 years – 1 teaspoon of infusion diluted in 200 ml of boiled water.

Store the prepared infusion in a cool (8-15 ° C) place for no more than 2 days.

Camomile

Chamomile is one of the most well-known and popular herbs that is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Chamomile contains many beneficial components, including flavonoids, apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin.

  • Apigenin may reduce inflammation in the body, the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
  • Luteolin can protect the body from harmful free radicals, improve skin and hair health, and improve digestive function.
  • Quercetin may reduce inflammation in the body, improve cardiovascular function, and lower blood cholesterol levels.

Chamomile is one of the most well-known medicinal plants used to treat flu or flu-like symptoms due to its antiviral biological activity.

M. Chamomilla belongs to a large group of medicinal herbs used by Persian scientists such as Avicenna and Rhazes to treat respiratory diseases. It contains more than 120 chemical components, including terpenoids, flavonoids and some components with potential therapeutic activity.

Method of application of chamomile flowers (recipe)

Place 3 tablespoons of chamomile flowers in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml of hot boiled water, close the lid and insist on a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Cool at room temperature for 45 minutes, strain, squeeze the rest until strained infusion. Bring the volume of infusion with boiled water to 200 ml.

Apply in the form of heat 3 times a day after meals: adults and children from 14 years old – 1/3 cup, children aged 12-14 years – 1/4 cup, aged 7-12 years – 2 tablespoons, aged 3-7 years – 1 tablespoon, at the age of 1-3 years – 1 dessert spoon, at the age of 6 months – 1 year – 1/2-1 teaspoon.

Externally, the infusion is used for rinsing 3-4 times a day. Shake the infusion before use.

Thyme

Thyme, or thyme, is an anti-inflammatory and antiviral herb that is widely used in medicine. Thyme contains a variety of beneficial compounds, including thymol and carvacrol, which have powerful antiviral and antimicrobial properties.

Thyme can improve respiratory function, relieve coughs and sore throats, improve digestion, and reduce stress levels.

Thyme essential oil has long been used in folk medicine as an expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial and antiseptic, mainly in the treatment of the upper respiratory tract. The volatile components of thyme – thymol and carvacrol – are widely used for therapeutic purposes.

How to use thyme (recipe)

Place 1 tablespoon of thyme herb in an enamel bowl, pour 200 ml of hot boiled water, close the lid and insist on a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Cool at room temperature for 45 minutes, strain, squeeze the rest until strained infusion. Bring the volume of infusion with boiled water to 200 ml (ml). Prepared water infusion can be stored in the refrigerator (at a temperature of 2-8 ° C) for no more than 2 days. It is recommended to shake the infusion before use. Adults take 1/4 cup 3-4 times a day 15-20 minutes before meals. Children aged 4-5 years take 1 dessert spoon in the form of heat, 5-7 years old – 1 tablespoon, 7-12 years old – 2 tablespoons, 12-14 years old – 1/4 cup, over the age of 14 years – 1/3 cup 3-4 times a day 15-20 minutes before meals.

Findings

Herbs have many health benefits, including antiviral and anti-inflammatory. However, you should consult your doctor before using herbs, especially if you have any chronic diseases or medications you are taking. In addition, it is important to remember that herbs can cause allergic reactions and unwanted side effects, so you need to follow the recommendations for their use.

Literature:

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Author: Natalia Kandybey, Candidate of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Quality Director of the Pharmaceutical Factory “Viola”

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