Borassus aethiopum (African fan palm) is traditionally used in various African communities for the management of malaria and related febrile illnesses. Ethnobotanical surveys from West and Central Africa, particularly in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Benin, have documented the use of different parts of the plant (especially roots and leaves) in herbal remedies for malaria. These preparations are typically administered as decoctions or infusions by traditional healers.

However, scientific validation of Borassus aethiopum for this indication is limited. A few in vitro studies have investigated the antiplasmodial activity of extracts from this plant, but results are preliminary and often lack follow-up in vivo or clinical studies. The available literature primarily highlights its traditional use, with only modest evidence from laboratory assays suggesting possible antimalarial activity. No isolated active compounds with confirmed efficacy against Plasmodium species have been fully characterized from Borassus aethiopum as of June 2024.

In summary, use of Borassus aethiopum for malaria is rooted in traditional medicine, and the current scientific evidence remains weak and insufficient for clinical recommendation. The rating of 2 reflects the presence of preliminary laboratory findings but a lack of robust scientific validation.