Scientists have created a chewing gum that can protect against herpes and flu

Finnish and American researchers have made a real breakthrough in preventive medicine by developing an innovative chewing gum capable of fighting herpes and influenza viruses, reports Oddity Central.

The new product, created by an international team of scientists, uses the unique properties of the natural protein FRIL, extracted from the beans of the Lablab purpureus plant. According to a study published in the prestigious scientific journal Molecular Therapy, this unusual gum demonstrates an impressive ability to reduce viral load, thereby preventing the spread of dangerous infections.

The effectiveness of the development was confirmed during thorough laboratory tests. Using a special mechanical mouth model, scientists found that just 15 minutes of chewing is enough to release more than half of the antiviral protein. This allows reducing the concentration of influenza viruses by an impressive 95%. To neutralize HSV-1 and HSV-2 herpes viruses, 160 mg and 74 mg of protein are required respectively.

It is especially important that the innovative gum fully complies with strict safety standards applied to both food products and pharmaceutical drugs. Its practicality is also notable: the product maintains its antiviral properties at room temperature for 800 days, making it ideal for mass production and long-term storage.

Currently, the scientific team is preparing for the next important stage - clinical trials involving humans, which should begin in the near future.