Potential TB eradictor plant under scope at UL
A team of researchers at the University of Limpopo have identified a plant, the Rubia Cordifolia, which is believed to be a potential source for the elimination of Tuberculosis (TB).
POLOKWANE – The researchers comprise of Senior Lecturer in the Department of Pathology and Medical Sciences Dr Ephraim Makgatho, award-winning Professor Winston Nxumalo, Lucas Sedibane together with postgraduate students Emmanuel Ndaba and Charles Mangelohas.
According to a report released by the World Health Organisation in 2016, South Africa is currently ranked as the 22nd highest country with TB.
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The Rubia Cordifolia presumably contain chemicals that if further developed, can be used to treat TB and protect one’s lungs, the plant can further be used to inhibit the growth of the disease.
Also known as Indian Madder, the plant which finds its origins in the coffee family tree originates from India. It also possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-diarrhoeal activities. “Our strategy is to use medicinal plants as alternative methods to treat TB and hopefully bring an end to it,” Makgatho explained.
Makgatho also added that the team seeks to make a worthy contribution in curbing TB microorganisms that has now become drug-resistant.
In the ongoing study, the researchers have screened leaf extract fractions of the Rubia Cordifolia plant, monitored the antioxidant activity of the plant’s leaf extract and measured their cytotoxicity to lymphocytes and neutrophils.
“The leaf extract showed the capacity to resist the growth of the virus in the system as they exhibit anti-inflammatory properties,” he explained.
With the support of government and independent funding agencies, the team is adamant that the development process of the plant could yield desirable and high impact results.
