Ethnobotanical survey of plants traditionally used to treat lymphatic filariasis in southern, Western and northwestern provinces of Zambia

Lymphatic filariasis is caused by three thread-like parasitic worms, called filariae. The infection damages the lymphatic system, increasing the risk for secondary infections and complications. Folks rely on Traditional healers as first line of care for most LF patients living in the community, most patients only go to the health facility once the symptoms have progressed and the pain worsened. This present review discuses some of medicinal plants that are used to treat LF in Southern, Western and Northwestern provinces of Zambia. The results of the survey found 17 plants from 15 different families were being used to treat LF, with the oral and topical route being the most common routes administration.