Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Sphenocentrum jollyanum Root Extract in Malaria Treatment: Efficacy, Safety, and Future Directions

Bwanbale Geoffrey David

Faculty of Pharmacy Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Malaria remains a critical global health challenge, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic agents. This review examines the therapeutic potential of the ethanol root-extract of Sphenocentrum jollyanum, a plant traditionally used in West Africa for malaria treatment. Utilizing the Plasmodium berghei rodent model, which mirrors human malaria, we assess the extract’s efficacy in restoring haematological markers, safety profile, and potential as an adjunct or alternative therapy. Sphenocentrum jollyanum, known for its rich phytochemical composition, including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids, has demonstrated significant restorative effects in preliminary studies. The extract improved hemoglobin levels, red blood cell counts, and platelet counts in infected mice, indicating potential benefits in mitigating malaria-induced anemia and other haematological abnormalities. Its mechanisms of action include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Despite its promising results, rigorous safety evaluations are necessary, including acute and chronic toxicity studies, to ensure its safe use. Future research should focus on clinical trials to validate efficacy, optimize dosage, and explore combination therapies with standard antimalarial drugs. The review emphasizes the need for standardized preparation methods, quality control, and integration into public health strategies to enhance malaria management, particularly in resource-limited regions.

Keywords: Sphenocentrum jollyanum Root Extract, Malaria, Treatment, Efficacy, Safety.

CITE AS: Bwanbale Geoffrey David. (2024). Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Sphenocentrum jollyanum Root Extract in Malaria Treatment: Efficacy, Safety, and Future Directions. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES 4(2):30-34. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJSES/2024/423034