Malaria Medicines Research Articles

Uji Aktivitas Antibakteri Ekstrak Daun Kopasanda (Chromolaena odorata L.) Terhadap Bakteri Staphylococcus epidermidis

Plants that can be used as antibacterial drugs are kopasanda leaves. Traditionally, the leaves of Kopasanda (Chromolaena odorata L.) have been used in wound healing to treat sore throat, malaria medicine, headache, antidiarrheal, and antiplasmodial astringent, antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory. This study aims to determine the antibacterial effectiveness of Kopasanda leaves (Chromolaena odorata L.) against Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria. This study used a true experimental research method that aims to determine a symptom that arises from the effect of the antibacterial effectiveness of Kopasanda leaf extract (Chromolaena odorata L.) against Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria. The population in this study is the kopasanda plant. The sample used in this study was kopasanda leaves. While the research instrument uses the results of laboratory tests. Based on the research results, kopasanda leaf extract (Chromolaena odorata L.) has antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis. The most effective concentration is at a concentration of 100% with an inhibition zone diameter of 12.17 mm so it is included in the category of strong antibacterial activity

A framework for assessing the impact of disease treatment.

To address ongoing pandemics and epidemics, policy makers need good data not only on the need for treatments but also on new interventions' impacts. We present a mathematical model of medicines' health consequences using disease surveillance data to inform health policy and scientific research that can be extended to address the current public health crisis. The Global Health Impact index calculates the amount of mortality and morbidity averted by key medicines for malaria, TB, HIV/AIDS and several Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) using data on outcomes in the absence of treatment, treatment effectiveness and access to needed treatment. Country-level data were extracted from data repositories maintained by the Global Burden of Disease study, Global Health Observatory, WHO, UNICEF and a review of the scientific literature. The index aggregates drug impact by country, disease, company and treatment regimen to identify the spatial and temporal patterns of treatment impact and can be extended across multiple diseases. Approximately 62million life-years were saved by key drugs that target malaria, TB, HIV/AIDS and NTDs in our latest model year. Malaria and TB medicines together were responsible for alleviating 95% of this burden, while HIV/AIDS and NTD medicines contribute 4% and 1%, respectively. However, the burden of disease in the absence of treatment was nearly evenly distributed among malaria, TB and HIV/AIDS. A common framework that standardises health impact across diseases and their interventions can aid in identifying current shortcomings on a global scale.

Quantitative 1H NMR method for analyzing primaquine diphosphate in active pharmaceutical ingredients

Thermal analysis, Fourier Transform IR, the isotropic chemical shift of 1H NMR in different solvents, their temperature dependence and spin-lattice relaxation time constant (T1), solution 1D and 2D NMR, and solid-state 13C and 31P NMR (magic angle spinning NMR) were employed to obtain full information and elucidate the structures of primaquine diphosphate (PQD) samples used for quality controlling malaria medicines. Additionally, a simple, rapid, specific, and reliable quantitative method (qNMR) was developed to determine the PQD level in the raw material of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The method was developed using ethylene carbonate (EC) as the internal standard and dimethylsulfoxide-d6 (DMSO-d6) as the NMR solvent. For the API qNMR, 1H NMR signals at 3.82 and 1.22 ppm were used. The qNMR methodology, through the linearity, range, LOD and LOQ, stability, precision, robustness, and accuracy, was validated within the requirements of guidelines. The accuracy of the qNMR was evaluated by comparing it to a pharmacopeial HPLC technique and there were no statistical differences (p > 0.05). The proposed qNMR method authentically supports and endorses the current pharmacopoeial methods used for determining the PQD content.

Pemanfaatan Satwa Liar sebagai Obat Tradisional di Desa Terak dan Teru, Kabupaten Bangka Tengah

Terak and Teru Villages are two of the eleven villages surrounding Gunung Mangkol Grand Forest. Since a long time ago, the people in these villages have fulfilled their daily needs by utilizing the natural resources around Gunung Mangkol Grand Forest. One of the natural resources in the grand forest is wild animals commonly used as traditional medicine. This research was undertaken to find out what wild animals are used as traditional medicine by the people of Terak and Teru Villages; and to find out what parts are used, types of utilization, and processing methods of the wild animals. The research was conducted from November 1, 2021 to November 29, 2021. The research methods used were collecting data by surveys and selecting respondents using the snowball sampling technique. Selected respondents were then interviewed according to the questionnaire. Based on the research results, nine species of wild animals were used as traditional medicine by the people of Terak and Teru Villages. The parts of wild animals used were bile, liver, meat, and whole bodies. The types of use of wild animals were male stamina enhancer, asthma medicine, skin pain medicine, surgical wound medicine, malaria medicine, typhus medicine, cough medicine, toothache medicine, burn treatment, and headache medicine. The methods of processing wild animals were unprocessed, dried in the sun for the oil, roasted / burnt, and fried.

Merozoite Proteins Discovered by qRT-PCR-Based Transcriptome Screening of Plasmodium falciparum.

The development of malaria vaccines and medicines depends on the discovery of novel malaria protein targets, but the functions of more than 40% of P. falciparum genes remain unknown. Asexual parasites are the critical stage that leads to serious clinical symptoms and that can be modulated by malaria treatments and vaccines. To identify critical genes involved in the development of Plasmodium parasites within erythrocytes, the expression profile of more than 5,000 genes distributed across the 14 chromosomes of the PF3D7 strain during its six critical developmental stages (merozoite, early-ring, late-ring, early trophozoite, late-trophozoite, and middle-schizont) was evaluated. Hence, a qRT-PCR-based transcriptome of the erythrocytic developmental process of P. falciparum was revealed. Weighted gene coexpression network analyses revealed that a large number of genes are upregulated during the merozoite release process. Further gene ontology analysis revealed that a cluster of genes is associated with merozoite and may be apical complex components. Among these genes, 135 were comprised within chromosome 14, and 80% of them were previously unknown in functions. Western blot and immunofluorescence assays using newly developed corresponding antibodies showed that some of these newly discovered proteins are highly expressed in merozoites. Further invasion inhibition assays revealed that specific antibodies against several novel merozoite proteins can interfere with parasite invasion. Taken together, our study provides a developmental transcriptome of the asexual parasites of P. falciparum and identifies a group of previously unknown merozoite proteins that may play important roles in the process of merozoite invasion.

Potential and distribution of Vitex sp and Peronema canescens jack as anti –COVID 19 plants in East Kalimantan Province, Indonesia

Vitex sp and Peronema canescens Jack have long been known by local people in East Kalimantan Province as traditional medicines for fever, cold, diarrhea, hypertension and malaria. Now it is widely used as an alternative medicine for Covid 19 whose symptoms are fever and colds. Although the use of anti-Covid-19 drugs should be studied further, it is very important to know information on the potential and distribution of Vitex sp and Peronema canescens Jack in East Kalimantan. This research was conducted by collecting vegetation data from the seedling level to the tree level, using inventory method on research plots that were established scattered on secondary dryland forest cover in East Kalimantan with purposive sampling technique measuring 20 x 100 meters. The results showed there were 54 individuals of Vitex sp with 36 individuals at the tree level, 16 individuals at the pole level and 2 individuals at the sapling level. Based on density, the distribution of Vitex sp commonly found at the pole vegetation level. Peronema canescens Jack totaled 66 individuals with details of 29 individuals at the tree level, 25 individuals at the pole level, 7 individuals at the sapling level and there were 5 individuals at the seedling level. Based on density, the distribution of Peronema canescens Jack was found at the seedling and sapling levels. The stand volume of Vitex sp is 19.66 m3, with the average of potential volume of 3.61 m3 ha−1 and the highest potential is at the pole level. The stand volume of Peronema canescens Jack is 8.99 m3, with an average of potential volume of 3.22 m3 ha−1, and the highest potential is at the pole level at 5.26 m3 ha−1. The presence of Vitex sp and Peronema canescens Jack trees in secondary dryland forest in East Kalimantan can be a genetic resource for the cultivation of Vitex sp and Peronema canescens Jack trees as anti-COVID 19 plants in East Kalimantan.

Hilliardiellia aristata: Review of its Medicinal uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological properties

Hilliardiellia aristata is a herbaceous plant species used as traditional medicine in southern Africa. The current investigation is aimed at reviewing the phytochemistry, pharmacological properties and medicinal uses of H. aristata. Results of the current study are based on literature search on pharmacological properties, phytochemistry and medicinal uses of H. aristata using information obtained from several internet sources such as Scopus, Elsevier, SciFinder, Google Scholar, Pubmed, ScienceDirect, BMC and Web of Science. Other sources of information included pre-electronic sources such as journal articles, theses, book chapters, books and other scientific publications obtained from the University library. The current study showed that H. aristata is used as a protective charm, traditional medicine for kidney problems, fever, headache, respiratory infections and malaria. Ethnopharmacological research identified glaucolides, lactones, alkaloids, phenols, tannins, glycosides, terpenoids, saponins, flavonoids and steroids from the aerial parts and leaves of H. aristata. The aerial parts, leaves, roots and whole plant parts of H. aristata exhibited anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiplasmodial, antiprotozoal, larvicidal and cytotoxicity activities. Hilliardiella aristata should be subjected to detailed phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological studies.

Utilization of mangrove plants as a source of Malaria medicine in North Maluku Province, Indonesia

Abstract. Tamalene MN, Sen UK, Bhakat RK, Vianti E, Bahtiar, Suparman. 2021. Utilization of mangrove plant species as medicine against malaria in North Maluku Province, Indonesia. Asian J Ethnobiol 4: 86-92. Local communities have still used plants as a source of medicine since immemorial time. Most local communities mix the plants to treat various diseases, including malaria. Almost half of 250 million of Indonesia’s population lives in malaria-endemic areas, and about 15 million people look for clinical malaria treatment every year. This research aims to survey mangrove plants as a source of Malaria medicine utilized by six ethnic groups of North Maluku Province, Indonesia. Data were collected from 98 informants on the local names of the used species, the parts, and the "modes of preparation.” The Fidelity Level serves to find out various outcomes. Six mangrove plant species, Lumnitzera littorea, Rhizophora mucronata, Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea, Sonneratia alba, Xylocarpus granatum, and Xylocarpus moluccensis, are used as malaria medicine. The traditional treatment that used mangrove rinds, barks, fruits, and flowers was a popular method practiced in the community social life. The mangrove plants have cultural, ecological, and economic values; Authors suggest that further investigations be undertaken on the pharmacological properties and level of toxicity of potion made using mangrove plant species. This will lead to stating scientific information related to the safety of consuming traditional medicines.

Antiplasmodial Activity of the Crude Extract and Solvent Fractions of Stem Barks of Gardenia ternifolia in Plasmodium berghei-Infected Mice.

Background The evolution of resistance to currently used malaria medicines together with the severe economic burden of malaria initiates the search for novel antimalarial drugs. Thus, the present experiment was intended to assess the in vivo antiplasmodial effect of Gardenia ternifolia based on the traditional claims and in vitro antimalarial effect of the plant. Methods For the crude extraction of stem barks of G. ternifolia, a cold maceration method using hydromethanol as a solvent was employed. The hydroalcoholic extract was then fractionated by three solvents (chloroform, n-butanol, and aqueous solvent) with different polarity indexes. Swiss albino mice infected with the chloroquine-sensitive malaria parasite (Plasmodium berghei) were used in this study. Acute oral toxicity study was done according to standard protocols. Four-day suppressive (hydromethanolic crude extract and solvent fractions), Rane's (crude extract), and repository (crude extract) tests were used to examine the antiplasmodial effects of the study plant. Results The chemosuppressive study revealed that all doses of the crude extract and its fractions displayed a significant (P < 0.001) inhibition of parasitemia compared with the vehicle (negative control). The crude extract's highest dose (600 mg/kg) showed the maximum (57.84%) parasitemia suppression during the chemosuppressive test. The crude extract also produced significant (P < 0.001) curative and prophylactic effects at all doses in Rane's and repository tests compared with the negative control. In the 4-day test, the n-butanol fraction produced parasitemia suppression higher than the chloroform fraction but lower than the crude extract. Of these, water fractions demonstrated the lowest chemosuppressive effect. Anthraquinone, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, tannins, and terpenoids were qualitatively detected in the plant material. Conclusion The current results showed that the hydromethanolic extract and fractions of G. ternifolia stem barks have antiplasmodial action with a high curative effect. Chloroform and n-butanol fractions were more active among the fractions, indicating that the nonpolar and semipolar constituents of the plant are responsible for the antimalarial effects.

Smart Safety Surveillance (3S): Multi-Country Experience of Implementing the 3S Concepts and Principles.

IntroductionThe Smart Safety Surveillance (3S) concept is based on the understanding that, when faced with competing pharmacovigilance priorities, countries will have to invest judiciously, by focusing on new priority products, sharing work and resources with other countries when possible and building national competence for those activities that cannot be delegated.MethodThe 3S principles were applied to Armenia, Brazil, Ethiopia, India, Peru and Thailand using three priority products: bedaquiline, rotavirus vaccine and tafenoquine. A baseline assessment of pharmacovigilance preparedness was used to identify gaps and establish a work plan. The impact was measured by comparing pre and post 3S-intervention outcomes, which included the number and quality of reports (completeness scores) in the WHO global database of Individual Case Safety Reports, VigiBase, and number of structural indicators met. The implementation period was 9–18 months, ranging from March 2018 (earliest started) until May 2020 (latest).ResultAn increase in adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting was demonstrated in Armenia (bedaquiline), Brazil (TB and malaria medicines), India (rotavirus vaccine) and Ethiopia (TB medicines). Completeness scores were above 0.5 at baseline in all countries, and reports improved in quality for Brazil (TB), Peru (malaria), Thailand (malaria) and India (immunization). The number of structural indicators met increased by more than double for Ethiopia. Ethiopia and India demonstrated an increased capacity for signal detection and signal evaluation. Armenia, Brazil, Peru and Thailand showed increased capacity to assess risk management plans following the implementation of 3S principles.ConclusionThe 3S concept has demonstrated success in different ways across the six countries. Activities focused on three products for a proof of concept of the 3S principles, with the expectation that the project impact will be sustained through strengthened systems, to guide pharmacovigilance activities of other products in the future. It is important to continue monitoring the countries to understand if the gains and successes of the current 3S project are sustainable.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40264-021-01100-z.

Evaluation of medicinal uses, phytochemistry and biological activities of Ehretia cymosa Thonn. (Ehretiaceae)

Ehretia cymosa Thonn. is a deciduous medium-sized to large tree which occurs naturally from Sierra Leone in West Africa to Eritrea and Kenya in East Africa, and Zimbabwe in southern Africa. This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of medicinal uses, phytochemistry and biological activities of E. cymosa. This review examines the existing literature on the medicinal uses, phytochemistry and biological activities of E. cymosa. This study revealed that the bark, leaf juice, leaves, roots, seeds, stems, twigs and whole plant parts of E. cymosa are mainly used as aphrodisiac, laxative and ethnoveterinary medicines and as traditional medicines for gastro-intestinal problems, wounds, malaria, fever, typhoid, convulsions, epilepsy, toothache and respiratory infections. Phytochemical research revealed that the species is characterized by alkaloids, anthraquinones, essential oils, fatty acids, flavonoids, glycosides, phenolics, proanthocyanidins, pseudotannins, reducing sugars, saponins, steroids, tannins and terpenes. Ethnopharmacological research revealed that the extracts of E. cymosa and phytochemical compounds isolated from the species showed antibacterial, antidiabetic, antihyperglycaemic and antioxidant activities. Ehretia cymosa should be subjected to detailed phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological evaluations aimed at correlating its medicinal uses with its phytochemistry and pharmacological properties.

Value regimes and pricing in the pharmaceutical industry: financial capital inflation (hepatitis C) versus innovation and production capital savings for malaria medicines.

The idea of this paper is to draw a parallel between two diametrically opposed political economies of medicine that coexist today. The first is embodied in the invention, appropriation, and distribution of antivirals for hepatitis C, particularly sofosbuvir, which was commercialized at an initial price of $85,000 in the United States, €56,000 in France, and $8000 in Brazil. These prices destabilized payers in both the North and the South. The second economy encompasses the invention, industrialization and distribution of new therapeutic combinations for malaria that were commercialized by Sanofi from 2007 onwards at a price of $1 per treatment for public markets. This price was set by a contract negotiated with Médecins sans Frontières. In this paper, I examine the pricing of these 2 classes of drugs, and I argue that the prices synthesize these political economies: they summarize the policy of appropriation of these molecules, aimed at their monopolization or a model of common good; they are referred to economic value regimes designed to optimize the profitability of advanced capital or to increase the accessibility of drugs for public payers and patients; and they are justified or contested by moral economies.

Gardenia ternifolia Schum. &amp; Thonn. (Rubiaceae): Review of medicinal uses, phytochemistry and biological activities

Gardenia ternifolia Schum. &amp;amp; Thonn. is a shrub or small tree widely used as a traditional medicine throughout its distributional range in tropical Africa. Gardenia ternifolia is widespread in tropical Africa, extending from Senegal eastwards to Ethiopia and Kenya, through the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) southwards to Namibia, South Africa and Mozambique. This study was aimed at providing a critical review of the medicinal uses, phytochemistry and biological activities of G. ternifolia. Documented information on the medicinal uses, phytochemistry and biological activities of G. ternifolia was collected from several online sources which included Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed and Science Direct. Additional information was gathered from pre-electronic sources such as book chapters, books, journal articles and scientific publications obtained from the university library. This study showed that the species is widely used as an aphrodisiac and protective charm, and traditional medicine for headache, migraine, respiratory infections, sore eyes, hypertension, diabetes, gastro-intestinal problems, erectile dysfunction, malaria, convulsions and epilepsy. Phytochemical compounds identified from the species include alkaloids, anthocyanins, coumarins, flavonoids, phenols, quinones, saponins, steroids, stereoisomeric neolignans, tannins and terpenoids. Pharmacological research revealed that G. ternifolia extracts and compounds isolated from the species have antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antileishmanial, antioxidant, antiplasmodial, antisickling, antitheilerial, hepatotoxicity, larvicidal and cytotoxicity activities. Future research on G. ternifolia should focus on detailed phytochemical evaluations, including toxicological, in vivo and clinical studies to corroborate the traditional medical applications of the species.

A synthesis and review of medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of Schef৒lera umbellifera (Sond.) Baill. (Ar aliaceae )

Schefflera umbellifera (Sond.) Baill. is an evergreen tree widely used as traditional medicine throughout its distributional range in southern Africa. Schefflera umbellifera is indigenous to Eswatini, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe. This study was aimed at providing a critical review of medicinal uses, phytochemical and pharmacological properties of S. umbellifera. Documented information on medicinal uses, phytochemical and pharmacological properties of S. umbellifera was collected from several online sources such as Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, Francis and Taylor and Science Direct, and pre-electronic sources such as book chapters, books, journal articles and scientific publications obtained from the University library. This study revealed that the bark, leaf and root decoction or infusion of S. umbellifera are mainly used as diuretic, laxative, colic and protective charm, and traditional medicine for stomach ulcers, weaning infants, insanity, inflammation, rheumatism and malaria. Phytochemical compounds identified from the species include 3-hydroxy-20(29)-lupen-28-ol, 7-hydroxy-6-methoxycoumarin, betulin, ent-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid and oleanolic acid. Pharmacological research revealed that S. umbellifera extracts and compounds isolated from the species have antibacterial, anti-HIV, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antiprotozoal, larvicidal and cytotoxicity activities. Schefflera umbellifera should be subjected to detailed phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological evaluations aimed at correlating its medicinal uses with its phytochemistry and pharmacological activities.

Effect of Croton caudatus Geiseler Aqueous Root Extract on Reproductive and Biochemical Parameters in Male Wistar Rats

BACKGROUND: Croton caudatus Geiseler (CCG), a local herb that empirically has been used as traditional medicine for malaria, fever, convulsions, and rheumatic arthritis. This study aimed to investigate the effect of CCG on reproductive and biochemical parameters in male Wistar rats.METHODS: Twenty-four Wistar male rats were divided randomly into four groups, which were treated with CCG aqueous root extract at the concentration of 0-16 mg/kg, via oral gavage. After 21 days of treatment, blood, sperm, and testes were harvested for analyses. Sperm parameters were evaluated using computer-assisted sperm analyser (Hamilton Thorne Sperm Analyzer), and morphometric analyses of histological changes were performed.RESULTS: CCG extract at 8 and 16 mg/kg significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased the total sperm count, concentration, and motility; whereby, only 16 mg/kg significantly decreased the percentage of abnormal sperm morphology. Testosterone hormones levels were the highest in 4 mg/kg CCG but were slightly decreased in 8 and 16 mg/kg CCG. The histological results showed a significant increase in the germinal epithelial height, decrease of lumen size at 16 mg/kg of CCG extract. No significant changes of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and creatinine levels in serum from all CCG extract groups. However, the aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level in 8 mg/kg CCG was elevated, and the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level was decreased in all CCG extract groups.CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the CCG extract at 4 mg/kg has the potential to enhance spermatogenesis activity within the seminiferous tubules in rats without any hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity effect on the liver and kidney.KEYWORDS: Croton caudatus Geiseler, rats, spermatogenesis, seminiferous tubules, testis, testosterone

Does improving appropriate use of malaria medicines change population beliefs in testing and treatment? Evidence from a randomized controlled trial.

A major puzzle in malaria treatment remains the dual problem of underuse and overuse of malaria medications, which deplete scarce public resources used for subsidies and lead to drug resistance. One explanation is that health behaviour, especially in the context of incomplete information, could be driven by beliefs, pivotal to the success of health interventions. The objective of this study is to investigate how population beliefs change in response to an experimental intervention which was shown to improve access to rapid diagnostic testing (RDT) through community health workers (CHWs) and to increase appropriate use of anti-malaria medications. By collecting data on individuals' beliefs on malaria testing and treatment 12 and 18 months after the experimental intervention started, we find that the intervention increases the belief that a negative test result is correct, and the belief that the first-line anti-malaria drugs (artemisinin-based combination therapies or ACTs) are effective. Using mediation analysis, we also explore some possible mechanisms through which the changes happen. We find that the experience and knowledge about RDT and experience with CHWs explain 62.4% of the relationship between the intervention and the belief that a negative test result is correct. Similarly, the targeted use of ACTs and taking the correct dose-in addition to experience with RDT-explain 96.8% of the relationship between the intervention and the belief that the ACT taken is effective. As beliefs are important determinants of economic behaviour and might guide individuals' future decisions, understanding how they change after a health intervention has important implications for long-term changes in population behaviour.

A Synthesis and Review of Medicinal uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of Maerua crassifolia Forssk. (Capparaceae)

Maerua crassifolia Forssk. is an evergreen tree widely used as traditional medicine throughout its distributional range in the Sahel region, peninsular Arabia east to Pakistan, east and west Africa. This study is aimed at providing a critical review of medicinal uses, phytochemical and pharmacological properties of M. crassifolia. Documented information on medicinal uses, phytochemical and pharmacological properties of M. crassifolia was collected from several online sources such as Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed and Science Direct, and pre-electronic sources such as book chapters, books, journal articles and scientific publications obtained from the university library. The articles published between 1964 and 2020 were used in this study. This study revealed that the bark, fruit, leaf and twig infusion and/or decoction of M. crassifolia are mainly used as ethnoveterinary medicine, and traditional medicine for cephalalgia, headache, fever, malaria, wounds, skin infections, toothache and gastro-intestinal problems. Phytochemical compounds identified from the species include alkaloids, amino acids, betaines, cardiac glycosides, fatty acids, flavonoids, lignan glucosides, phenolics, quaternary ammonium compounds, saponins, steroids, tannins and terpenoids. The M. crassifolia extracts exhibited antibacterial, anti-diarrhoeal, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiplasmodial, antiprotozoal, antitrypanosomal, antipyretic and cytotoxicity activities. Maerua crassifolia should be subjected to detailed phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological evaluations aimed at correlating its medicinal uses with its phytochemistry and pharmacological activities.

Maerua angolensis DC. (Capparaceae): A Review of its Medicinal Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties

Maerua angolensis DC. is collected from the wild for its edible leaves and fruits, and is also used as a traditional medicine. This study is aimed at evaluating the ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of M. angolensis. Results of the current study are based on data derived from several online databases such as Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed and Science Direct, and pre-electronic sources such as scientific publications, books, dissertations, book chapters and journal articles. The articles published between 1960 and 2020 were used in this study. This study revealed that the aerial parts, bark, leaves, roots and stem bark infusion and/or decoction of M. angolensis are mainly used as a protective charm and ethnoveterinary medicine, and a traditional medicine for pain, cancer, fever, malaria, sores, wounds and gastro-intestinal problems. Phytochemical compounds identified from the species include alkaloids, amino acids, anthraquinones, betaines, cardiac glycosides, cyanidin, esters, fatty acids, flavonoids, glucosinolates, phenols, saponins, sterols, steroids, tannins and triperpenoids. Ethnopharmacological research revealed that M. angolensis extracts have acaricidal, anthelmintic, antibacterial, antifungal, antidiarrhoeal, anticonvulsant, anti-diabetic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antinociceptive, anxiolytic, anti-urolithiatic, antiprotozoal, molluscicidal and nematicidal activities. There is need for extensive toxicological evaluations of crude extracts and compounds isolated from the species since M. angolensis contains potentially toxic compounds

Antimalarial Activity of Lamiaceae Family Plants: Review

Malaria is a major infectious disease caused by Plasmodium sp., and it can infect human’s trough females’ mosquitos Anopheles sp. bite. Plasmodium resistance to malarial drugs used today occurs mostly in endemic areas, so it is necessary to look for alternative medicines for malaria, especially medicines derived from plants Objective: The objective of writing this literature review is to see the ability of the Lamiaceae family plant as a source of new malaria medicines. Methods: Scientific evidence of traditional use, antiplasmodial activity, and active antimalarial compounds from plants belong to Lamiaceae family used to support this article are carried out by searching online for articles related to the title of this article. Results: Lamiaceae family plants used for malaria treatment traditionally in many countries, and many of them have been examined for their antimalarial activity in vitro against P. falciparum or in vivo against P. berghei in mice, and they have antimalarial effect with various potency. There are forty active antimalarial compounds isolated from plants of Lamiaceae family, and these could be candidates for new antimalarial medicines. Conclusion: Lamiaceae family is proven to be a source of plants that have antimalarial activity, this can be seen from their traditional use as malarial drugs in various countries, the number of plant extracts with antimalarial activity and many active antimalarial substances isolated from Lamiaceae family plants, but they still need to be further examined to become antimalarial drugs.

Ghanaian herbal medicines for malaria: An Evaluation of the Clinical Safety and Effectiveness of “Time Herbal Mixture” in uncomplicated malaria

Background: Herbal antimalarials have become a popular source of treatment for most Ghanaians. The significant increase in patronage is of public health concern due to the lack of quality, safety, and efficacy data. Aim: In this report, we evaluated the clinical safety and effectiveness of a Ghanaian commercial product named “Time Herbal Mixture” (THM). The product is formulated from the leaves of Solanum torvum and Vernonia amygdalina and the stem bark of Spathodea campanulata and Bombax buonopozense. Methods: Participants of 40 patients diagnosed with uncomplicated malaria were recruited, treated, and followed up for a period of 28 days. This population comprised 25 (62.50%) females and 15 (37.50%) males, with a mean age of 42.29 (12.35) years. Outcome of primary interest was the ability of the product to clear blood parasites by day 7 of the study, resolution of cardinal symptoms of malaria, and an absence of adverse effects from the use of the product. Results and Discussion: A total of 33 (82.50%) participants achieved clearance of all parasites by day 7 (complete cure). Partial clearance was attained by 6 (15.0%) and treatment failure in 1 (2.50%). Resolution of the cardinal symptoms was also observed in most participants by day 7. The product also had a good safety profile as none of the participants reported any adverse effects. Liver, kidney, and hematological profiles were also normal after the study. Conclusion: “THM,” therefore, has the potential to be used in cases of uncomplicated malaria.