Harnessing nature: a systematic exploration of in vitro antileishmanial and antihuman African trypanosomal properties in traditional medicinal plants and their active principles.

A total of fifty eligible articles were included. 217 plants demonstrated potent activity (IC₅。 Leishmania spp. and/or T. brucei. Among these, 41 species had documented traditional use in the treatment of leishmaniasis or HAT, whereas 76 were traditionally employed for unrelated ailments yet exhibited scientific evidence of antiparasitic efficacy. Notably, 67 species were active against both parasites, 120 displayed selective antitrypanosomal, and 30 showed selective antileishmanial activities. Exemplary candidates include Achillea ptarmica L. (pellitorine), Allium sativum L. (allicin, ajoene), Strychnos spinosa Lam. (triterpenoids), Tridax procumbens L. (oxylipin), and Marrubium incanum Desr. (salvigenin). More studies should define mechanisms and in vivo efficacy.Systematic review registration: Not registered.