Combating Malaria with Plant-Based Antimalarials: A Comparative Study

Muhindo Edgar

Faculty of Pharmacy Kampala International University Uganda

Email: edgar.muhindo@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

ABSTRACT

Malaria remains a leading global health threat, especially in low-income regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa, where traditional antimalarial treatments face increasing challenges due to drug resistance. Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) have long been the primary frontline treatment; however, escalating resistance in Plasmodium species has prompted researchers to investigate alternative solutions, including plant-derived antimalarials. This study examines the efficacy and safety of plant-based antimalarial compounds, particularly Artemisia annua, compared to synthetic drugs, considering traditional knowledge and contemporary pharmacological perspectives. Plant-based compounds may offer unique advantages, such as multi-target mechanisms and reduced side effects, presenting them as viable candidates for future malaria treatments. This study highlights the potential of plant-based antimalarials as sustainable and accessible alternatives, emphasizing the need for further research into clinical efficacy, safety pharmacology, and collaborative efforts with traditional practitioners.

Keywords: Malaria, Antimalarial resistance, Plant-based antimalarials, Artemisia annua, Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), Traditional medicine.

CITE AS: Muhindo Edgar. (2024). Combating Malaria with Plant-Based Antimalarials: A Comparative Study. Research Output Journal of Public Health and Medicine 4(2):18-22. https://doi.org/10.59298/ROJPHM/2024/421822