Short Lecture “From farm to pharma: Euclea natalensis, a possible adjuvant for TB patients”

Multi-drug resistant forms of tuberculosis and severe non-compliance is impeding total eradication of this infectious bacterial disease. Many people have been relying on traditional remedies together with the current drug regimen for the treatment of associated symptoms of tuberculosis such as coughing and chest related complaints. Euclea natalensis A. DC. (EN) has traditionally been used in South Africa for the treatment of tuberculosis and its associated symptoms, stomach ailments and dysentry amongst others. Investigations into the pharmacodynamic properties of EN substantiated the antibacterial, antimycobacterial and hepatoprotective activity of the ethanolic shoot extract. Additional analysis included for the possible product development of EN included cytotoxicity, inhibition and/or stimulation of major CYP P450 enzymes, the nutritional content, heavy metal analysis, microbial content, antimutagenicity and antifibrotic activity of the ethanolic shoot extract. Many other projects have since started looking into the PLGA nanoparticle formulation of the extract and the main active ingredient, propagation trials and a polyherbal combination with other indigenous South African medicinal plant species. The development of EN has had the ability in stimulating the bioeconomy through capacity building and community development. Results obtained from the previous studies conducted and current ongoing investigations can be used to support the further development of the extract and the main active ingredient as a possible adjuvant to be taken in conjunction with conventional treatment.

The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest.

Publication History

Article published online:
12 December 2022