Harnessing nature: a systematic exploration of in vitro antileishmanial and antihuman African trypanosomal properties in traditional medicinal plants and their active principles.
Qamar Uddin Ahmed, Nur Adlina Mat Nasir, Taslima Begum et al.
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In 30 seconds
This PRISMA 2020 systematic review examined in vitro antileishmanial and antitrypanosomal activity reported in studies published from 2003 to 2023. Fifty eligible articles met the review’s activity criterion of IC₅₀ < 10 µg/mL against Leishmania spp. or Trypanosoma brucei. Across these studies, 217 plants showed activity against one or both parasites: 67 were active against both, 120 selectively against T. brucei, and 30 selectively against Leishmania. The review identifies plant extracts and active compounds as candidates for further investigation, while noting that mechanisms and in vivo efficacy require study.
Key findings
- Fifty eligible articles were included, reporting 217 plants with IC₅₀ < 10 µg/mL against Leishmania spp. and/or T. brucei.
- Sixty-seven plant species were active against both parasites; 120 showed selective antitrypanosomal and 30 selective antileishmanial activity.
- Forty-one species had documented traditional use for leishmaniasis or HAT, while 76 were used traditionally for unrelated ailments.
Why it matters
The review brings together in vitro evidence on medicinal plants and active principles relevant to two parasitic diseases for which current treatments are described as constrained by toxicity, cost, and resistance. Its findings can help prioritise candidates for further drug-discovery research, but laboratory activity alone does not establish safety or therapeutic benefit in patients.
What to keep in mind
The evidence is limited to in vitro studies; the review notes that mechanisms of action and in vivo efficacy remain to be defined. The review was not registered.