Nano-Enabled Herbal Remedies for Malaria Treatment: A Review of Recent Advances

TL;DR

This paper reviews how nanotechnology can improve malaria treatment by enhancing drug delivery and reducing resistance.

Contribution

The paper highlights recent advances in nano-enabled herbal remedies as a novel approach for malaria therapy.

Findings

Nanoparticles offer improved drug delivery and reduced toxicity compared to traditional treatments.

Green nanotechnology-based therapies show enhanced safety and cost-effectiveness.

Herbal nano-formulations have potential in treating drug-resistant malaria.

Abstract

Malaria has long been a significant global health concern, listed as a high-priority disease by several global health agencies, despite of several control measures have been put in place. Most widely utilized treatment options for malaria include chloroquine, artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), and quinine. However, challenges, such as drug resistance, misdiagnosis, and limited treatment efficacy remain major concerns. Despite ongoing efforts, the development of an effective malaria vaccine is still debatable. Many existing malaria treatments have drawbacks, such as low water solubility, poor bioavailability, and a rise in drug-resistant parasites owing to their non-judicious use, which contributes to increased malaria cases and fatalities. Nanotechnology presents a promising approach to safer and more effective malaria therapy and control. Nanoparticles offer several advantages over conventional treatments, including high drug-loading capacity, targeted delivery, improved biocompatibility, and reduced toxicity in host cells. Green nanotechnology-based antimalarial therapies have demonstrated potential therapeutic benefits, enhanced safety, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional treatments, ultimately improving patient compliance and treatment outcomes. In this review paper, we discussed non-conventional breakpoints in the malarial life cycle, traditional herbal remedies for malaria, and nanoparticle-based delivery systems. Additionally, we reviewed the antimalarial effects of herbal nano-formulations, their pharmacological and therapeutic potential, drug-resistant malaria, preventive strategies, vector control using green nanomaterials, and the challenges associated with plant-based nanotechnologies. This review suggests nanotechnology-based therapeutics as promising candidates to treat malaria with significant room for applications and commercialization potential in the longer run.

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