**5. Limitations**

Literature shows that people who either have positive attitudes towards CAM or those who consume CAM are unwilling to comply with conventional therapy, most prominently the vaccinations and to follow the official COVID-19 guidelines [92–98]. It has been reported that the optimistic attitudes towards CAM are correlated with negative attitudes towards vaccination is not evidence-based but because of an underlying outlook on health or perhaps a reluctance to stick to conventional therapy [93–95]. Those who utilize CAM perceived CAM as a natural, safe approach to improve the host immunity, while vaccines are considered as a risky option [94]. Additionally, both anti-vaccination attitudes and higher utilization of CAM are correlated to the poor trust of individuals towards the healthcare system or medical authorities [92].

#### **6. Summary/conclusion**

It is apparent from the above findings, that the understanding of the COVID-19 pathogenesis and its impact on immunity will progress the management of this lethal infectious disease. As per the earlier studies, the host immune response has an elementary function of defense against the majority of infectious diseases including COVID-19. In this chapter specifically attempt has been made on the utilization of various NPIs, herbs, phytochemicals and micronutrients which has the potential to assist in the prevention and/or management of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Thus utilization of CAMs may be an efficient approach in improving immunological reactions against infections. Moreover, the consumption of vitamins and minerals was observed to be favorable in improving the immune system and its function. Although, certain clinical studies reported the success of CAMs in the treatment, prevention and management of COVID-19, additional studies through clinical

analysis as well as consumers' experience on CAMs are essential to draw strong conclusions in the success of utilization of CAMs for treatment, prevention and management of COVID-19.
