Testing a Traditional Remedy for COVID-19
Imagine a health challenge that circles the globe, changing the way we live, work, and connect. COVID-19, the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has been exactly that. While modern science raced to create powerful vaccines and antivirals, researchers have also been looking back—way back—for potential solutions.
COVID-19 has presented unprecedented global health challenges, driving innovation across all medical disciplines.
Traditional Chinese Medicine offers centuries of accumulated knowledge about treating respiratory illnesses.
"The core idea behind using TCM for COVID-19 isn't about magic bullets, but about holistic support. Formulas like SanHanHuaShi are designed not necessarily to kill the virus directly, but to help the body restore its natural balance and mount a more effective defense."
To answer their big question, scientists have designed a detective story with the most rigorous rules possible. Here's a visual guide to their methodology:
Creating a detailed research plan that outlines every aspect of the study before it begins.
Identifying and screening eligible patients who match the study criteria.
Assigning participants randomly to either the treatment or control group.
Administering the SanHanHuaShi granules to the treatment group for 7 days.
Monitoring symptoms, viral load, and safety parameters throughout the study.
Comparing outcomes between groups using pre-specified statistical methods.
Participants randomly assigned to groups to eliminate bias
Direct comparison between treatment and control groups
Both researchers and participants know which treatment is being administered
The study will recruit hundreds of eligible patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 and match the specific TCM syndrome. To ensure a fair test, they must meet clear criteria.
Traditional Formula in Modern Form
The Test Group takes the SanHanHuaShi granules, dissolved in warm water, twice a day for 7 days. Both groups receive the same standard medical care recommended by national guidelines.
Receives Standard Care + SanHanHuaShi Granules
Receives Standard Care Only
Patients with this condition often experience:
How do you measure "effectiveness"? The researchers have pre-specified clear targets, known as endpoints.
Time for all core symptoms (fever, fatigue, cough) to return to normal.
This clinical trial is more than just testing a single medicine. It represents a bridge between ancient healing traditions and the rigorous demands of modern evidence-based science.
Centuries of Traditional Chinese Medicine knowledge
Rigorous clinical trial methodology and statistical analysis
Creating a blueprint for evaluating traditional medicines
By applying a structured, transparent, and controlled protocol, researchers are not just validating a potential new treatment option for COVID-19; they are creating a blueprint for how to respectfully and scientifically evaluate the vast pharmacopeia of traditional medicines.