Herbal Remedies for Measles: Exploring the Role of Medicinal Plants in Disease Management

Abstract

Measles is a common viral childhood disease characterized by high fever, cutaneous rash, cough, and conjunctival inflammation. It may lead to severe complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis. Given the growing interest in natural therapeutic approaches, investigating the potential role of medicinal plants in the management of this disease has become increasingly important. This review aims to compile, identify, and document medicinal plants traditionally used in Iran for the treatment of measles. A comprehensive literature search was conducted within the framework of traditional medicine, focusing on classical medical texts, ethnobotanical references, and reliable online databases to identify medicinal plants reported for measles treatment. Traditional Iranian medicine documents the use of a wide variety of medicinal plants for the management of measles, including Thymus vulgaris L., Althaea officinalis L., Achillea millefolium L., Valeriana officinalis L., Lavandula angustifolia Mill., Aloysia citrodora Paláu, Matricaria chamomilla L., Berberis vulgaris L., Echium amoenum Fisch. & C.A.Mey., Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench, Ficus carica L., Rubus idaeus L., Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss, Descurainia sophia (L.) Webb ex Prantl, Arctium lappa L., Mentha spicata L., Citrus limon (L.) Burm.f., Brassica oleracea L., Viola odorata L., Isatis tinctoria L., and Salvia officinalis L. The analysis indicated that the families Lamiaceae and Asteraceae were the most frequently represented. Leaves were identified as the most commonly used plant part in the treatment of measles. A diverse range of medicinal plants has been traditionally employed in Iranian medicine for the management of measles. These plants may represent promising natural sources for alleviating disease symptoms. However, scientific validation through pharmacological and clinical studies is necessary to ensure their safety, efficacy, and rational therapeutic application.

Keywords: Measles, Medicinal plants, Traditional medicine, Remedy