In vitro antiviral effect of flavonoid-rich extracts of Vitex polygama (Verbenaceae) against acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus type 1.

Extracts and fractions rich in flavonoids from fruits and leaves of Vitex polygama Cham. (Verbenaceae) were tested against acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus type 1 (ACV-HSV-1). Both fruit and leaf extracts exhibited a dose-dependent antiviral activity. The extract from the leaves showed intracellular antiviral activity while the extract from the fruits had virucidal effect. A fraction from the ethyl actetate extract of the leaves inhibited virus propagation by blocking HEp-2 cell receptors.