Role of Ethnopharmacology In Seizure Control In Africa; Systematic Review

Epilepsy poses a significant neurological challenge in Africa, especially in LMIC's with restricted treatment access. This study addresses the need for epilepsy treatments in the Africa. Primary objective was to analyze studies on the use of traditional plants in managing epileptic seizures in both animals and humans, aiming to address the treatment gap observed in 59% of diagnosed cases in sub-Saharan Africa, where only 33% receive appropriate management.

The methodology involved a systematic review of literature using keywords such as 'ethnopharmacology,' ‘alternative medicine,’ ‘traditional medicine,’ 'seizures,' ‘convulsion,’ ‘animals,’ ‘humans,’ and 'Africa' across databases like PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane. Research was divided into two parts: first focused on animal studies of African plant-based products, while second assessed the efficacy and safety of these products in humans. Exclusion criteria included studies beyond the geographical scope, lacking relevant outcomes, reported in non-English languages, or lacking methodological rigor, strictly adhering to PRISMA guidelines.

Results revealed out of 3607 articles on animal studies, 21 met inclusion criteria, and in human studies, 64 were pooled, with 6 meeting inclusion criteria, predominantly from West African countries. Cannabis emerged as a prevalent plant used in both animal models and humans. Notably, individuals from low socio-economic backgrounds were identified as the primary consumers of traditional medicine.

In conclusion, while traditional medicine displayed promise in seizure control, challenges persisted in dosage, frequency, therapy duration, and adverse effects. The study emphasizes the necessity for well-designed clinical trials to address these challenges and validate traditional medicine's use in epilepsy treatment across Africa.