Evaluación del uso de la cascarilla, Cinchona officinalis, para el control del SARS-CoV-2

Abstract

Abstract:Cascarilla, Cinchona officinalis, is a native plant of Loja used for the treatment of malaria since colonial times, which has affected its conservation status due to overexploitation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of this species was proposed as a treatment and prevention alternative. The objective of this research was to contrast scientific information, media and knowledge of the population of La Paz about the cascarilla and synthetic derivatives for the treatment and control of COVID-19. Both scientific information and media were local, national and international. The knowledge of the population was obtained through local surveys. In-Vitro and In-Silico studies of the synthetic compounds show control of COVID-19. However, In-Vivo studies were not positive and could lead to mortality. The media are unaware of the difference between natural compounds and synthetic derivatives. The population of Lojana, although unaware of the characteristics of the plant and its distribution, indicates a low use as treatment and prevention of COVID-19. This work provides information on the lack of knowledge of the uses of the species and the potential risk to which it is subjected.