Cepharanthine has anti-plasmodial, anti-tumor , anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities in vivo, and it is a highly potent inhibitor of HIV-1 replication in a chronically infected monocytic cell line. Cepharanthine inhibits the HIV-1 entry process by reducing plasma membrane fluidity, and the plasma membrane is therefore an identical target to prevent viral infection. Cepharanthine is a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid from tubers of Stephania; stimulates recovery of immunologic function in lymphatic system after administration of antineoplastic agents or x-irradiation. It is a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid and a member of isoquinolines.