Evidence supporting the use of: Desmodium adscendens
For the health condition: Malaria

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Desmodium adscendens has a history of traditional use in parts of West Africa for the management of malaria and related febrile illnesses. Ethnobotanical surveys from Ghana, Nigeria, and other regions have documented its use by traditional healers, often in combination with other plants, to reduce fever and treat symptoms associated with malaria. The traditional rationale is based on its reputed antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as anecdotal reports of symptom relief.

However, scientific validation for the antimalarial efficacy of Desmodium adscendens is limited. A few in vitro studies suggest weak to moderate antiplasmodial activity of extracts against Plasmodium falciparum, but these effects are generally much lower than those of standard antimalarial drugs. There are no robust clinical trials or convincing in vivo studies in humans to confirm effectiveness for malaria treatment. Most scientific attention has focused on other therapeutic properties (e.g., asthma, liver protection), not malaria.

In summary, the use of Desmodium adscendens for malaria is primarily justified by tradition, with minimal scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for this condition. Its use should not replace proven antimalarial therapies.

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Products containing Desmodium adscendens

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