Saha, P., Jha, R., Yasmin, A. et al. Nutraceuticals interventions in the management of sickle cell anemia: bridging nutritional support and therapeutic strategies. Med Chem Res 34, 1631–1662 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00044-025-03445-x
According to the article, a growing area of research in sickle cell disease (SCD) management focuses on the potential benefits of phytomedicines and nutraceuticals.
- Phytomedicines are medicines made from plants. These are extracts or preparations from plants that are traditionally or experimentally used to treat diseases.
- Nutraceuticals are compounds found in food that have health benefits beyond basic nutrition. They combine the ideas of “nutrition” and “pharmaceutical” and may help prevent or treat diseases.
The article explains that these plant-based compounds may offer therapeutic effects by influencing the sickling of red blood cells and improving overall red blood cell health. Nutraceuticals, defined as food components that provide medical or health benefits, are highlighted for their ability to modulate the immune system, act as antioxidants, and provide other protective effects. The article suggests that their use in SCD could help prevent or mitigate disease complications, although these findings are primarily based on laboratory studies.
The article details several specific plants and their proposed roles in managing SCD. For example, Lonchocarpus cyanescens has been observed to enhance the osmotic resistance of red blood cells and reduce likelihood of sickle cells. s. Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides extracts were reported to reduce the proportion of sickled cells in laboratory experiments, and Acacia nilotica may reduce platelet aggregation and support vascular function.
Overall, according to the article, these findings indicate that traditional medicinal plants and nutraceuticals may have promising antisickling properties and could complement conventional therapies such as hydroxyurea. However, the research remains incredibly preclinical, with most results observed in vitro or in animal models, highlighting the need for further clinical studies to determine safety, efficacy, and optimal dosing in humans.
