By Jimoh Ahmed
Renowned parasitologist, Prof. Olusegun Akanbi, has affirmed that herbal medicine remains one of the most promising solutions for malaria treatment, given the parasite’s growing resistance to conventional drugs.
Speaking at the 33rd Inaugural Lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, Nigeria, on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Prof. Akanbi delivered a lecture titled “Small but Mighty to Pull Down the Mightier: The Menace of Malaria Parasite.” He underscored the persistent struggle between humans and malaria parasites, emphasizing the critical role medicinal plants could play in overcoming the disease.
“Without prejudice to my religious beliefs as a pastor, I believe returning to nature for lasting solutions should not be seen as a problem. Nigeria is blessed with natural resources capable of providing a permanent solution to malaria, but scientific validation is key,” he stated.
Prof. Akanbi highlighted the adaptability of Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite, which has consistently countered human efforts to eradicate it. “You would agree that an unseen warfare exists between man and malaria parasites, ongoing since the dawn of history. Despite technological advancements, the parasite’s adaptive mechanisms have kept the battle unending,” he noted.
His research on Anogeissus leiocarpus (Igi Ayin) and Terminalia avicennioides (Udi) demonstrated their potency against malaria. “The methanolic crude extract of A. leiocarpus at 200mg/kg body weight showed greater antiplasmodial activity than artesunate, a WHO-recommended drug,” he revealed.
He also emphasized the benefits of combining medicinal plants, akin to Artemisinin Combination Therapy (ACT). “Our study found that combining A. leiocarpus and T. avicennioides extracts resulted in higher parasite clearance than Artemether-Lumefantrine,” he stated.
While advocating herbal medicine, Prof. Akanbi warned against unregulated use. “Many people in malaria-endemic areas rely on medicinal plants, but the lack of prescribed dosages is a major concern. Self-medication without proper guidelines is dangerous,” he cautioned.
He further highlighted potential risks, noting that some plant extracts could impact vital organs. “While herbal medicine holds promise, we must evaluate its effects on the liver and kidneys,” he added, citing studies showing increased liver enzymes in animals treated with certain plant extracts.
Prof. Akanbi lamented the slow progress of malaria vaccine development. “The only existing vaccine, RTS’S, emerged after centuries of battle against this microscopic organism. However, its long-term effectiveness remains uncertain due to the parasite’s ability to develop resistance,” he warned.
He also criticized the high cost of potent antimalarial drugs, making them inaccessible to many in endemic regions. To address these challenges, he recommended:
Increased public awareness on malaria prevention and control.
Routine malaria parasite and haemoglobin checks during antenatal and postnatal clinics.
Government-funded kidney and liver function tests for pregnant women.
Free potent antimalarial drugs for children under six and pregnant women in specialized government hospitals.
Greater investment in research for more effective antimalarial treatments.
In his opening remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Olugbenga Ige lauded Prof. Akanbi’s contributions to academia and research. “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Professor Olusegun Akanbi for his unwavering commitment to scholarship and his enduring legacy at Adekunle Ajasin University,” he stated.
