A phytotherapeutic approach to Nigerian anti-HIV and immunomodulatory drug discovery
Ajaiyeoba, E.O.; Ogbole, O.O.
African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences 35 Suppl: 71-76
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 0309-3913 PMID: 18050777 Document Number: 602468
Effective therapies for management of HIV infection are top priority due to the high rate of morbidity and mortality of the disease, globally and this has assumed devastating dimension in the African continent. In Nigeria, many patients use herbal remedies for the management of HIV/AIDS, without sufficient scientific proof that they possess anti-HIV activity. In this report, the role of the tropical rainforest plants, identified through ethnomedical approach, as a source of antiviral and immunomodulating agents is highlighted. Some plant derived antiviral and immunomodulatory agents are briefly discussed. An outline of in vitro antiviral and immunomodulatory assays that can be adapted to the Nigerian environment is given. The urgent need to identify and evaluate the medicinal plants in the Nigerian biodiversity reputedly used for management of viral infections is also emphasized.