Background Traditional medicine remains a cornerstone of global healthcare, as highlighted by the World Health Organization, which recognizes its long-standing role in disease prevention and treatment. Syrian ethnobotanical heritage includes valuable medicinal plants such as Damask rose and black mulberry, both rich in phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, and bioactive metabolites with documented antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Despite their widespread traditional use, these resources have not been sufficiently developed into standardized functional food products for global markets. Conventional plant extraction methods often rely on ethanol, which limits acceptability in food applications. Therefore, there is a growing need for safe, alcohol-free extraction systems aligned with modern functional food trends. Objective This work aims to develop an innovative, alcohol-free extraction method using grape vinegar to produce a functional nutraceutical formulation combining Damask rose, black mulberry, and honey. The study further evaluates its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immune-supportive potential, and its role as a complementary strategy for preventing respiratory and viral infections. Methods A novel extraction protocol was designed using grape vinegar (Vitis vinifera) as a food-grade solvent. The formulation included: Damask rose petals (Rosa damascena) Black mulberry fruits (Morus nigra) Natural wildflower honey Grape vinegar The preparation process involved controlled maceration and blending to preserve volatile oils, phenolics, tannins, and anthocyanins. The formulation concept was supported by a systematic literature review (1995–2020) analyzing approximately 90 studies from databases such as PubMed and Web of Science, with 35 studies meeting inclusion criteria related to antiviral and antioxidant activity of anthocyanin-rich plants. Mechanistic evaluation focused on: Free radical scavenging activity Immune modulation Antiviral interference mechanisms (e.g., viral adsorption and replication inhibition) Results The developed formulation demonstrated: High antioxidant capacity, attributed to phenolics and anthocyanins Antimicrobial and antiseptic effects, supporting respiratory and gastrointestinal health Immune-enhancing activity, linked to vitamin C and polyphenolic compounds Symptomatic relief in conditions such as cough, sore throat, and mild infections Potential antiviral support, consistent with literature demonstrating inhibition of viral entry and replication by anthocyanins Additionally, the vinegar-based extraction preserved sensory acceptability while eliminating alcohol-related limitations. Discussion The results align with global research indicating that anthocyanin-rich plant extracts possess broad-spectrum antiviral and antioxidant properties, including activity against influenza viruses and other respiratory pathogens. The synergy between Damask rose, mulberry, vinegar, and honey enhances bioavailability and therapeutic potential through: Dual antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects Improved delivery of bioactive compounds in a food-compatible matrix Reduced reliance on synthetic or alcohol-based formulations This innovation bridges traditional knowledge and modern nutraceutical science, supporting the development of safe, culturally acceptable functional foods. Importantly, this work builds upon evidence highlighting plant-derived compounds as complementary strategies in managing viral diseases, including those similar to COVID-19. Conclusion This study presents a novel, alcohol-free functional food formulation based on vinegar extraction of Damask rose and black mulberry enriched with honey. The invention successfully transforms traditional remedies into a scientifically grounded nutraceutical product with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immune-supportive benefits. ✅ This work has led to the successful grant of a patent for the developed formulation, confirming its novelty, applicability, and innovation potential in the field of functional foods and natural health products.
Khatib et al. (Tue,) studied this question.