Researchers from the United States and Finland have developed a novel chewing gum that can trap and neutralize herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2), potentially reducing the risk of oral transmission.

The gum contains a natural antiviral protein called FRIL, derived from lablab bean powder, which binds to viruses and prevents them from infecting cells. In laboratory tests, simulated saliva from chewing the gum for 15 minutes neutralized up to 75% of HSV-1 and 94% of HSV-2.

This innovative approach builds on earlier research where similar gum formulations showed effectiveness against influenza and SARS-CoV-2 viruses. By targeting viruses in the mouth and throat, the gum offers a promising tool for reducing viral loads and transmission.

While lablab bean powder is generally recognized as safe by the U.S. FDA, researchers emphasize that further clinical studies are needed to confirm its real-world effectiveness.

Source: Scitech Daily

https://scitechdaily.com/this-plant-based-gum-neutralizes-95-of-flu-and-herpes-viruses-and-could-curb-the-next-pandemic