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Uttarakhand, Roorkee, June 19, 2026: IIT Roorkee researchers have made notable progress addressing Chikungunya, a continuing health threat in the tropics and subtropics. The study offered the first insight into bioactive components of ayurvedic cow urine distillate (CUD), showing that CUD possesses antiviral properties against the Chikungunya virus, thereby providing a basis for additional Ayurveda-inspired, low-cost antiviral drugs.
The research, published in the journal ACS Agricultural Science & Technology, was conducted by Professor Shailly Tomar and her research group from the Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT Roorkee, and researchers of leading Ayurveda and biomedical institutions of India. This study integrated advanced virology with techniques such as metabolomics, molecular docking, and biochemical analysis, which led to the identification of a specific antiviral active principle.
The researchers also showed that the CUD treatment decreased the levels of Chikungunya virus by more than 90% using a safe concentration, and that a synergetic interaction of CUD, thymoquinone (from Nigella sativa), and piperine (from black pepper) achieved a 99.85% reduction of the viral load in vitro.
Additional studies showed antiviral properties of benzoic and hippuric acid, as well as oleic acid. These compounds were shown to bind and potentially inhibit viral proteins, which are important for the process of viral replication.
Highlighting the importance of the research, Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, said, "Our research discovers bioactive compounds in Ayurvedic Gau mutra ark with antiviral properties and demonstrates the efficacy of synergistic, natural structures. This groundwork provides a basis for the development of advanced antiviral techniques for Chikungunya and related viral infections. Further pre-clinical and translational studies will be required to assess their value in therapy." The Chikungunya virus is mainly spread by Aedes mosquitoes and causes severe fever with joint pain and a host of chronic illnesses. The number of cases of infection is growing rapidly around the globe, yet effective antiviral treatment is rare.
IIT Roorkee’s research has provided scientific insights to help fill this gap. The research, supported by the Ministry of AYUSH, has involved extensive laboratory validation, computer-based studies, and antiviral testing. The findings reinforce the need to focus on natural bioactive trials and integrative science to help combat illness in the future.
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