Anti-viral properties of wildeals (Artemisia afra) and wynruit (Ruta graveolens) as combination therapy and its effects on the renal system
Abstract
Globally, approximately 80% of the population is using indigenous medicines. This is because indigenous medicines are less expensive and since the indigenous healers are residing within their communities. The indigenous people trust medicinal plants more than Western medicines, because they have been using them since time immemorial. Wildeals (Artemisia afra) and wynruit (Ruta graveolens) are other medicinal plants that have been used by some indigenous people in South Africa to treat several conditions. These have mostly been used as mono therapies, but in the Northern Cape Province, Griqualand-West, South Africa, they are being used as combination therapies also.
A combination of wildeals and wynruit is a commonly used medicinal decoction in the Northern Cape Province in South Africa. The aims of this research were to confirm scientific knowledge regarding the anti-viral properties of such wildeals and wynruit decoctions, prepared either as single, or combination therapies, as well as to investigate their effects on the renal system. To achieve these, the anti-viral properties in vitro and the effects on the renal system in vivo were investigated during this study. The decoctions were tested in vitro against the influenza virus (common cold), and in vivo for any possible undesirable effects on the renal system, using Sprague-Dawley rats.
This research project had followed a mixed method approach, with a multiphase design. Research phase 1 comprised of the realisation of the qualitative approach, phase two involved a systematic review, while phase 3 consisted of the in vitro testing and phase 4 of the in vivo experimental procedures. Population and sampling were in accordance with the objectives of each phase. Data was collected and analysed in accordance with the objectives of each phase, since a multiple approach to data collection and analysis was used during this research project. This study comprised of a baseline type of research, where hybrid science was used to generate baseline knowledge.
The decoctions being investigated during this research had been prepared authentically by the rural Griqua community, under pragmatic conditions, and subjected to testing in a western science laboratory. The findings revealed that the combination therapy and the one medicinal plant (wildeals) had proven effective against the influenza virus. In vitro medicinal
plant (wynruit) had demonstrated some resistance, which may have resulted from possible contamination during uncontrolled preparation by the community member. No undesirable effects on the kidneys and livers of rats were identified.
It was concluded that the tested decoctions, as prepared by the Griqua community from wildeals and wynruit for this study, had appeared safe and effective for human consumption. This outcome could significantly impact on future health care in South Africa, if co-existence between Indigenous and Western health systems is promoted and achieved.