Alkaloids as the natural anti-influenza virus agents: a systematic review

Alkaloids are a rich source of important chemical compounds which can be used for development of new anti-influenza agents. In this systematic review, we focused on the naturally derived alkaloids and their mechanisms of actions as promising anti-influenza virus agents. The results showed anti-influenza virus activity of 43 alkaloids extracted from plants, fungi, and bacteria. The alkaloids with their inhibitory effect on influenza virus replication and inhibition of inflammation of the lungs can be considered as anti- influenza drugs. Regarding this idea, more comprehensive studies may be required to modify these compounds to increase their effects on influenza virus.