Journal of Tropical Diseases & Public Health

Abstract

Anti-Parasitic Properties of Selected Plants in Rural Central Uganda for Schistosomiasis

Haley Chanel Powell*

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by a parasitic flatworm that is especially prevalent in sub- Saharan Africa. Schistosomiasis has debilitating symptoms that ultimately have negative implications for socioeconomic activities in endemic areas, making access to treatments critically important for long-term health. This thesis focuses on the importance of three rural plants and their medicinal uses for schistosomiasis in a rural Ugandan village. The plants known as Kisanasana, Lubilzi, and Niimu are locally used to treat intestinal symptoms of schistosomiasis and have been reported to have positive results. A study was conducted in the village of Mpunde and surrounding areas to document the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of local villagers surrounding local soiltransmitted helminthic infections. However, the use of non-biomedical treatments to control parasitic infections remains critically understudied. This thesis therefore makes an important contribution to understanding traditional healing practices with plants that are less well known and poorly studied in Western ethnobotany.

Published Date: 2025-11-04; Received Date: 2025-09-13