Medical Chewing Gum: Protection Against Flu and Herpes?

A newly developed chewing gum made from lablab beans shows great potential in neutralizing flu and herpes viruses.

Antiviral power of the lablab bean

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have created a chewing gum containing the FRIL protein, derived from lablab beans. This protein binds to viruses such as Influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2), effectively neutralizing them. In lab studies, the viral load was reduced by more than 95%.

Simple use, high effectiveness

The gum releases the antiviral protein while being chewed—over 50% of the active compound is delivered within the first 15 minutes. Just 40 mg of the gum is enough to significantly lower viral levels. Its ease of use makes it a practical complement to existing prevention methods.

Broad potential for future applications

Beyond its effectiveness against flu and herpes, early data suggests the gum may also work against avian flu strains like H5N1 and H7N9. This opens up further applications in human and animal health, such as adding the bean powder to animal feed to help contain outbreaks in poultry farms.

This development marks a significant step forward in the fight against viral infections and could play an important role in future public health strategies.

Image by Sandra Seitamaa via Unsplash.