Antiviral potential of mangiferin, a natural plant polyphenol compound

Viral diseases remain a major global health threat, while viral variants and drug resistance drive the need for new antivirals. Mangiferin, a C-glycosyl xanthone polyphenol widely distributed in medicinal and edible plants, exhibits antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities. Although current research on the antiviral effects of mangiferin involves various viruses, the evidence remains fragmented. This review focuses on mangiferin's antiviral effects, integrating evidence from different viral models and summarising mechanisms. Existing studies indicate that mangiferin can inhibit viral adsorption, entry, replication, and the activity of virus-associated enzymes, while also modulating host inflammatory, immune, and oxidative stress responses. This review also discusses limitations related to drug delivery, bioavailability, and clinical translation. Despite insufficient clinical data, inadequate target validation, low oral bioavailability, and limited pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) evidence, mangiferin remains a promising candidate for further antiviral development and translational research.Graphical abstract.