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Herbal Remedy For Malaria: Ethnobotanical Study Unveils Indigenous Malaria Treatment in Nigeria
- November 30, 2023
- Posted by: Admin
- Category: Discovery Health Health tips National Health Daily
Malaria, prevalent in tropical regions, remains a major health concern in Nigeria, predominantly caused by Plasmodium falciparum and P. malariae transmitted through female Anopheles mosquitoes. This disease accounts for substantial morbidity and mortality, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, leading to over one million deaths annually and significant economic impacts.
Historically, medicinal plants have been integral in malaria treatment. Early remedies like quinine, extracted from the cinchona tree, paved the way for subsequent antimalarial drugs such as chloroquine. However, the emergence of chloroquine-resistant strains necessitated the search for new treatments, leading to the development of artemisinin-based drugs.
Recent research in Okeigbo, Ondo State, Nigeria, focused on ethnobotanical practices related to malaria treatment. The community, known for its diverse ethnic makeup and traditional practices, relies on a range of medicinal plants. Through interviews and discussions with diverse community members, this study identified 50 plant species like Morinda lucida, Enantia chlorantha, Alstonia boonei, Azadirachta indica, and Khaya grandifoliola, utilized in various malaria therapies.
Different plant parts—barks, roots, leaves, or whole plants—are used, either singularly or in combinations, reflecting the rich ethno-pharmacological diversity within the community. The bitter taste of these preparations and the belief in complementary effects among the plants’ active principles are notable features. Administration often considers the severity of the disease, lineage, cultural group, and individual characteristics.
Moreover, this research highlights the potential of indigenous medicinal plants in Okeigbo for developing novel antimalarial drugs. These plants’ anti-malarial properties, yet to be fully explored, might offer cost-effective solutions. However, the study also calls for caution, recognizing dangerous practices and the need for a multidisciplinary approach in drug development while preserving traditional knowledge.
Overall, this ethnobotanical study showcases the significance of traditional plant-based remedies in combating malaria in Okeigbo, Nigeria. It underscores the potential for harnessing indigenous knowledge to innovate and develop effective anti-malarial drugs, paving the way for further scientific exploration and collaborations in the field.
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