Glycyrrhizin Effectively Inhibits SARS-CoV-2 Replication by Inhibiting the Viral Main Protease

The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 developed into a global pandemic affecting millions people worldwide. Despite one year intensive research, the current treatment options for infected are still limited. Clearly, novel antiviral compounds patients urgently needed. Complementary medicine is used along with standard medical and accessible to vast majority Natural products activity may contribute improve overall condition individuals. In present study, we investigated glycyrrhizin, primary active ingredient licorice root, against SARS-CoV-2. We demonstrated that glycyrrhizin potently inhibits replication in vitro. Furthermore, uncovered underlying mechanism showed blocks viral by inhibiting main protease Mpro essential replication. Our data indicate consumption glycyrrhizin-containing such as root tea black be great benefit people. good candidate further investigation clinical use treat COVID-19 patients.