SNAKEBITES are a serious health problem worldwide, especially in Africa. Every year, millions are bitten, and tens of thousands die or suffer permanent injuries. In rural Nigeria, many rely on traditional medicine, as antivenoms are expensive and not always available.

Researchers have found that Strophanthus sarmentosus, a plant commonly used in Nigerian traditional medicine, may help protect against bites from the carpet viper (Echis ocellatus), one of sub-Saharan Africa’s deadliest snakes.

Locally, it is called Igbo iropo (Yoruba), Ogbu-ekwu (Igbo), and Tsutsar tsuntsaye (Hausa). In some communities, it is known as medicinal or snakebite vine.

A study published in Molecules found that extracts from the plant’s leaves and roots can reduce the harmful effects of carpet viper venom.

The research, led by Babafemi Ajisebiola of Osun State University, Osogbo, in collaboration with Julius Abiola, Olapeju Aiyelaagbe, Akindele Adeyi, and Simone König of the University of Ibadan, tested the extracts on rats.

When the venom was injected into rat skin, it caused large red lesions. Adding the plant extracts reduced the size and severity of the lesions and limited bleeding.

The extracts also protected red blood cells, with the highest doses of leaf ethyl acetate extracts reducing destruction to about 23 per cent. Blood clotting improved as the extracts countered the venom’s effect of speeding clotting, helping blood clot normally.

Key findings showed that the extracts blocked venom enzymes from breaking down bradykinin, a chemical that controls blood pressure and inflammation. Some extracts completely stopped this breakdown, while others significantly reduced it.

The researchers also tested ouabain, a compound found in Strophanthus. It inhibited venom enzymes and slowed blood clotting but was less effective at protecting red blood cells than the full plant extracts, suggesting that multiple compounds in the plant work together for protection.

Importantly, the doses were safe in rats, which showed no signs of illness over 96 hours, supporting the plant’s long history of safe traditional use.

The team concluded that the plant’s combination of protecting blood vessels, red blood cells, and clotting, while blocking venom enzymes, makes it a promising natural remedy.

“This explains why S. sarmentosus has been used for generations as first aid for snakebites,” the study noted. While more research is needed to identify the active compounds and safe human doses, plant-based treatments could complement antivenoms.

In addition, researchers in BMC Biotechnology reported that Ganoderma lucidum, a medicinal mushroom, shows promise as a natural antivenom.

Tested at Osun State University, Osogbo, the extract reduced venom-induced bleeding by almost 63% at certain doses and normalised blood clotting times.

Lead researcher Dr. O. O. Oyedara said, “Our findings indicate that Ganoderma lucidum could be developed further as a natural treatment for snakebite victims. Hesperidin, in particular, shows strong potential as a bioactive antivenom compound.”

Research in Uganda also underscores the value of traditional medicine. Scientists from Gulu University, Makerere University, and other institutions found that Toona ciliata, a local tree, may provide effective treatment against cobra bites. The forest cobra’s venom disrupts clotting, destroys red blood cells, and damages muscles and nerves, potentially causing paralysis or death.

Laboratory tests showed that water-based extracts and oils from the root bark of Toona ciliata protected rats from lethal venom doses. The extracts helped blood clot faster, blocked harmful venom enzymes, and neutralised venom proteins.

Chemical analysis revealed compounds, including rutamarin, which may reduce neurotoxic effects, preventing paralysis and other dangerous symptoms.

Similar research in India and Pakistan has shown that plants such as Mucuna pruriens and Buchanania lanzan can neutralise cobra venom. Together with findings from Nigeria and Uganda, these studies suggest that many natural plants may be effective against snakebites if properly studied.

Researchers recommend further studies to test additional plants against various snake venoms. If successful, these discoveries could lead to affordable, safe, and easily administered treatments for rural communities with limited access to conventional antivenoms. (Nigerian Tribune)