Role of medicinal plant in treatment of malaria

Raut, Suraj S. and Dhole, Yashkumar R. and Deshmukh, Swati P. (2025) Role of medicinal plant in treatment of malaria. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 30 (1). pp. 178-185. ISSN 2581-3250

Medicinal plants have played a crucial role in the treatment of malaria, providing a foundation for some of the most effective antimalarial drugs, such as quinine from Cinchona and artemisinin from Artemisia annua. These plants are rich in bioactive compounds with potent antimalarial properties, making them valuable in combating malaria, particularly in regions with limited access to synthetic drugs. However, their use is not without challenges, including variability in efficacy, safety concerns, and the emergence of drug-resistant Plasmodium strains. Despite these limitations, the integration of medicinal plants into modern therapies offers significant potential for innovation, such as developing combination treatments, biotechnological advancements for consistent production, and personalized medicine approaches. Additionally, promoting the cultivation of medicinal plants can support sustainable healthcare solutions in malaria-endemic regions. As research advances, medicinal plants will continue to play a vital role in addressing drug resistance and providing accessible, culturally relevant malaria treatments.