Several complications attributed with Herpes virus related infections and the emergence
of drug resistant viruses prompt scientists to search for new drugs. Several terpenoids and
coumarins have shown anti HSV effects while no sesquiterpene coumarins have been
previously tested for HSV treatment. Three sesquiterpene coumarins badrakemin acetate (1),
kellerin (2) and samarcandin diastereomer (3) were isolated from the gum resin of Ferula assafoetida,
a herbal medicine with antimicrobial, antiprotozoal and antiviral effects. Compounds
were identified by 1D and 2D- NMR spectroscopies and comparison with literature data. A
comparative evaluation of cytotoxicity and antiviral activity showed that kellerin (2) could
significantly inhibit the cytopathic effects and reduce the viral titre of the herpes virus type 1
(HSV-1) DNA viral strain KOS at concentrations of 10, 5 and 2.5 μg/mL.
