Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Modibbo Adama University,Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria.
2
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria
3
Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Adamawa state, Nigeria.
4
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria.
10.30476/tips.2024.101048.1224
Abstract
Malaria is a prevalent infectious disease that is transmitted by parasites through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Despite advancements in medical science, malaria is still a significant global health challenge, especially in regions like northern Nigeria. Medicinal plants have long played a pivotal role in traditional healthcare systems, serving as valuable sources of therapeutic compounds. In the context of malaria, certain plants in Northern Nigeria have been traditionally recognized for their antimalarial properties, offering an alternative or complementary approach to conventional treatments. The significance of these medicinal plants lies in their potential to provide accessible, cost-effective, and culturally relevant solutions for managing malaria. Traditional knowledge about these plants has been passed down through generations, contributing to the resilience of local communities against the disease. This review explores the rich diversity of medicinal plants in Northern Nigeria with antimalarial properties. Through extensive research utilizing various search engines, we identified and examined 30 distinct plant species traditionally used in the treatment of malaria across the region. The documented uses, phytochemical compositions, and therapeutic potentials of these plants contribute valuable insights into the traditional medicinal practices of Northern Nigeria. Our findings underscore the importance of further scientific investigation and documentation of these natural resources, with the potential for developing novel antimalarial drugs and fostering sustainable healthcare practices in the region.
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