Virucidal Effect of Medicinal Smoke for Mass Fumigation using Hawan Techniques during SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Review

Abstract

Even though many studies tested and found Hawan altering biome by
killing pathogenic bacteria, fungus, and viruses. Studies are required to
further validate its effect on load of viruses, its infectivity and if it can
reduce occurrence of flu-like illnesses and their complications. In view
of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and its potential of community spread, one
of the measure to curtail community spread may be Indian traditional
mass fumigation technique of Hawan, which is considered as cultural
practice for health and well being by offering ingredients of medicinal
values in to fire. Such processing of specific ingredients through fire is
considered turning them to nano-particles and act to alter biome. This
paper reviews existing research evidences and suggests future mode of
studies on viruses. This also highlights dearth of research capacity for
estimation of virus content from the open air samples and the need to
strengthen it through potential/ proposed technologies.