The Centre for Herbal Sciences (CHS) at the University of Madras, along with Ramoni Research Foundation (RRF), Chennai has invented a new herbal drug for curing the pandemic swine flu. The drug, developed from Siddha and Ayurveda preparations, is named as 'Ayusrem'.

The scientists behind the discovery of the medicine have claimed that they have cured 10 patients contracted by H1N1 viruses and 300 people with other influenza diseases.

The research team has presented their results, formulation, clinical trials and cases of treatment before the health department officials of the state service in the presence of State health secretary.

Prof Dr Raaman, plant scientist and director of CHS and Dr K Balasubrahmanian, organic chemist and pharmacologist and CEO of RRF, the pioneers in the research team, have said the new product would be the first drug in the world developed from herbal source for such dreaded virus prevention. They have applied for patent for the new medicine.

While speaking to Pharmabiz, the doctors said the product is highly cost effective with no side effects. Ayusrem, which is in the form of capsule, is composed largely of nutraceuticals which are safer for human consumption.

The medicine contains 32 different herbal components, which are claimed to be effective in treating the swine flu. Dr Balasubrahmanian, who is also a registered Physician, said, "We have already treated more than hundred patients with cold, fever and cough. Ten of them were suffering with extreme symptoms of H1N1 flu and respiratory problems."

About clinical trials, the scientists said they have tested the drug on 300 people earlier and the results were found good. The report was sent to the DCGI.