In vitro and in vivo anti-malarial and cytotoxic activities of ethanolic extracts of Annona senegalensis Pers (Annonaceae) from Democratic Republic of the Congo

The objective of this study was to validate scientifically the antimalarial effectiveness and safety of A. senegalensis. Ethanolic crude extracts of Annona senegalensis growing in Democratic Republic of the Congo were evaluated for the inhibitory effects on two malaria parasites strains (P. falciparum FcM29 & P. yoelii subsp nigeriensis) and cytotoxicity towards leukaemia P-388 cell lines. Results indicate that, the antiplasmodial activities of tested plant extracts are moderate in vitro and weak in vivo. While the leaves crude extract displayed toxic effect towards P-388 cells. So, the wide use of this medicinal plant in Congolese Folk Medicine as antimalarial herbal could constitutes a great risk of population poisoning.