Evidence supporting the use of: Baobab
For the health condition: Malaria

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Baobab (Adansonia digitata) has a long history of use in traditional African medicine, including as a supportive remedy for malaria. Ethnobotanical surveys conducted in various African countries, such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Sudan, have documented the use of different parts of the baobab tree—particularly the leaves and bark—in concoctions aiming to reduce fever and manage symptoms associated with malaria. Healers often combine baobab with other medicinal plants as part of polyherbal preparations given to patients presenting with fever or suspected malaria. However, these uses are primarily based on anecdotal and cultural practices passed down through generations, rather than rigorous scientific validation.

Current scientific research on baobab's antimalarial efficacy is limited and inconclusive. While some in vitro studies have investigated baobab extracts for activity against Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for most malaria cases, the results have not shown significant antiplasmodial effects compared to established antimalarial drugs. Moreover, there is a lack of well-designed clinical trials assessing baobab’s effectiveness in humans for malaria treatment or prevention. Thus, the use of baobab in this context is primarily justified by tradition, with minimal scientific support at present.

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