An appraisal on the use of medicinal plants against sexually transmitted infections in sub-Saharan Africa

Sub-Saharan Africa has one of the highest burdens of venereal diseases (VDs) globally, presenting a critical public health challenge [ 1 ], for which medicinal plants offer potential therapeutic solutions [ 2 ]. This review critically evaluates the use of plants for treating VDs across the region. Adhering to the PRISMA protocol [ 3 ], we assessed literature focusing on studies published from 2008 to May 16, 2024. Of the 131 studies reviewed, 20 ethnobotanical reports were identified, with Nigeria and South Africa contributing the most (25% each). We documented 445 anti-venereal plants spanning 99 families, sourced from over 872 Indigenous knowledge holders. Notable plants included Cassia abbreviate Oliv., Ziziphus mucronate Willd., Ximenia caffra Sond., Catharanthus roseus (L.) G.Don, and Terminalia prunioides M.A. Lawson. In the analysis of 98 plants based on high ethnobotanical index, Fabaceae was the most represented (15.8% with 16 species), followed by Cucurbitaceae and Solanaceae (5.9% each). Roots (41.5%) and leaves (26.3%) were predominantly utilised, highlighting a potential threat from destructive harvesting practices [ 4 ]. Decoctions (36.7%) and infusions (12.2%) were common preparation methods, and oral administration (72.9%) was predominant. We consolidated valuable Indigenous knowledge, crucial for ethnopharmacological research and potential drug discovery ([ Fig. 1 ]). While many species are utilised, the emphasis on root harvesting and the existence of threatened species indicate the need for sustainable harvesting practices, further research, stringent regulations, and cross-country collaborations to conserve and utilise these medicinal resources responsibly. Documenting this knowledge is essential to preserve cultural heritage and guide the development of effective and culturally sensitive VD treatments. Fig. 1 Overview on the ethnobotanical documentation and conservation of medicinal plants used against sexually transmitted infections in sub-Saharan Africa. Funding This work received funding from the National Research Foundation (NRF) Incentive Funding for Rated Researchers (Grant Number 1507340), South Africa. The opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the authors alone, and the NRF accepts no liability whatsoever in this regard. Publication History Article published online: 05 March 2026 © 2026. Thieme. All rights reserved. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Oswald-Hesse-Straße 50, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany