Testing the Antimalarial Effectiveness of Cilantro Leaf Extract in Living Models

Jenn Hoskins
13th July, 2024

Testing the Antimalarial Effectiveness of Cilantro Leaf Extract in Living Models

This study scientifically confirmed the antimalarial efficacy against Plasmodium berghei in mice for the traditional remedy derived from the coriander plant (Coriandrum sativum), pictured here.

Image adapted from: Habte et al. / CC BY (Source)

Key Findings

  • Researchers at Addis Ababa University studied the antimalarial effects of coriander (Coriandrum sativum) in mice
  • The coriander extract was non-toxic and significantly reduced malaria parasite levels in all test models
  • The highest reduction in parasite load was 82.74% in the suppressive test at the highest dose
Malaria remains a significant global health issue, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, despite advancements in control measures and treatments. The emergence of drug-resistant malaria parasites has necessitated the search for new antimalarial drugs. A recent study conducted by researchers at Addis Ababa University[1] has investigated the antimalarial efficacy of Coriandrum sativum (commonly known as coriander) in a mouse model. This study builds on the traditional use of coriander leaves in Ethiopian folk medicine to treat malaria and aims to provide scientific validation for its use. Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites, primarily Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, transmitted through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes[2]. Control strategies have included vector control and the use of artemisinin-based combination therapies, which have significantly reduced malaria-related deaths. However, the rise of drug-resistant strains threatens to reverse these gains[2]. The development of new antimalarial drugs is crucial, and plants used in traditional medicine offer a promising starting point for drug discovery. The study by Addis Ababa University researchers aimed to evaluate the antimalarial properties of C. sativum in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei, a model organism for malaria research. The leaves of C. sativum were extracted using maceration with distilled water, and the extract was tested for acute toxicity and phytoconstituents. The antimalarial efficacy was assessed using standard screening models: prophylactic, chemosuppressive, and curative tests. Mice were divided into groups and administered the extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day, with chloroquine and distilled water serving as positive and negative controls, respectively. The results showed that the C. sativum extract was non-toxic to mice and significantly inhibited parasitemia (p < 0.05) in all models. The highest inhibition of parasite load was observed in the suppressive test (82.74%) at the highest dose, followed by the curative test (78.49%). Additionally, the extract improved survival rates, prevented weight loss, inhibited hypothermia, and protected against hemolysis in the infected mice. These findings are significant as they provide scientific evidence supporting the traditional use of C. sativum for treating malaria. The study also aligns with previous research efforts aimed at developing new antimalarial drugs and understanding the biology of malaria parasites[2][3]. The identification of novel drug targets and compounds, such as those found in C. sativum, is essential for combating drug-resistant malaria and achieving long-term malaria elimination goals[3]. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of integrating traditional medicine with modern pharmacological research. While traditional remedies have been used for centuries, scientific validation is crucial to ensure their safety and efficacy. The promising results from the C. sativum study warrant further investigation into the plant's active compounds and their mechanisms of action. In conclusion, the study conducted by Addis Ababa University demonstrates the potential of C. sativum as an effective antimalarial agent in a mouse model. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to discover new antimalarial drugs and underscores the value of traditional medicinal plants in modern drug development. Further research is recommended to explore the full therapeutic potential of C. sativum and its application in human malaria treatment.

MedicineBiochemAnimal Science

References

Main Study

1) Antimalarial efficacy test of the aqueous crude leaf extract of Coriandrum sativum Linn.: an in vivo multiple model experimental study in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei.

Published 12th July, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-024-04577-0

Related Studies

3) Malaria: Biology and Disease.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2016.07.055


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