Antiviral Activity of Indigenous Medicinal Plants in Kenya and Their Potential Role in Managing Viral Infections: A Systematic Review

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: The use of indigenous medicinal plants to manage viral diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), Herpes, Hepatitis, and measles is a global practice, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia. During the COVID-19 pandemic, reliance on traditional remedies increased significantly. However, concerns remain regarding the scientific validation of efficacy, dosage and safety of these remedies.

Objective: To systematically summarise the available scientific evidence on the antiviral properties of Kenyan medicinal plants and highlight those suitable for further pharmacological research and development.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted in Google Scholar and PubMed using Boolean combinations of keywords: “antiviral,” “activity,” “herbal,” “plant,” and “Kenya.” Eligible sources included original research articles, conference papers, and abstracts that assessed antiviral activity through in vitro, in-vivo, or clinical methods.

Results: Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Of the 54 plant species evaluated, 28 exhibited antiviral activity against six viruses: human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (14 plants), herpes simlex virus (HSV) (9), measles virus (MV) (5), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) (4), hepatitis B virus (HBV) (3), and dengue virus (DV) (1).

Conclusion: Several Kenyan medicinal plants show promising antiviral properties. Further research is needed to investigate their mechanisms of action, toxicity/safety, and dosaging to support their integration into evidence-based healthcare.