Products
Products available in pharmacies and drugstores include the medicinal drug, lozenges, and teas (e.g., Cystus 052, Phytopharma Infectblocker).
Stem plant
Stem plants include several species and varieties from the genus Cistus and the family Cistaceae, which are native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. In many countries, especially the herb of and of is used.
Medicinal drug
The cistus herb (Cystus herba) is used as a medicinal herb.
Ingredients
Active constituents include polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenoids. Cistus is characterized by a high polyphenol content.
Effects
Cistus extract has shown antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, astringent and antimicrobial properties in various studies. It is effective against various viruses. These include HIV viruses, influenza viruses and Ebola viruses. It is an entry inhibitor, meaning that the attachment of viruses to host cells is inhibited.
Indications for use
Cistus extracts are mainly used for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, especially respiratory infections such as a cold or flu.
Dosage
According to the package leaflet. The lozenges are dissolved slowly in the mouth.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- There are insufficient data on use during pregnancy and lactation.
- Children < 12 years (no sufficient data).
Full precautions can be found in the package insert.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions are not known. As a precaution, it is recommended that other medicines be taken or used at least one hour apart.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include hypersensitivity reactions, stomach pain, and nausea. No data are available on frequency.