Antimalarial response,traditional and other potential uses of Croton genera

Malaria, a life-threatening disease caused by genus Plasmodium, is prevalent in Africa, leading to a significant number of deaths. This study focuses on the antiplasmodial properties of the Euphorbiaceae family, specifically the Croton genus, known for its medicinal benefits and widely used in Africa, Southern America, and Asia. In vivo experiments on mice revealed the antiplasmodial activity of Croton species’ root, leaves, and fruit extracts. Notably, C. macrostachyus Hocsht and C. zembesicus leaf and root extracts are rich in alkaloids and terpenoid derivatives such as sesquiterpenes and monoterpenes. The forthcoming chapter underscores the potential of Croton genus as a natural remedy against malaria.