Research progress in the inhibitory mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine therapies against influenza A

Influenza A, an acute or subacute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza A virus (IAV), affects humans and animals, and poses a serious threat to public health. Currently, IAV prevention and treatment rely primarily on antiviral drugs and nebulization therapy. Although these methods offer rapid efficacy, prolonged or excessive use often induces drug resistance and sequelae, and has high costs. Throughout China’s history, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has repeatedly resisted major epidemics, and substantially contributed to the survival and cultural continuity of the Chinese nation. Modern medical research has demonstrated that certain traditional Chinese medicinal formulas or their primary active constituents exhibit significant antiviral activity and immunomodulatory effects. Consequently, exploring the antiviral mechanisms of TCM or their active components, alongside their synergistic application with influenza vaccines and existing antiviral drugs, could enable novel approaches and research directions to achieve influenza prevention and control. This article reviews the current status of IAV transmission, as well as progress in modern medical research in influenza A prevention and treatment with TCMs or their active constituents.