Ghanaian herbal medicine shows promise against river blindness and livestock disease
A new study has examined the potential of NTD-O2, a Ghanaian herbal medicine, in treating two devastating parasitic diseases. Researchers tested its effects on onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, and animal African trypanosomiasis. The findings suggest the medicine could offer a promising alternative for regions heavily burdened by these conditions.
Onchocerciasis is caused by the parasite Onchocerca volvulus, spread through the bites of infected blackflies. The disease leads to severe skin damage and irreversible blindness in many cases. Animal African trypanosomiasis, caused by trypanosome parasites, threatens livestock across Sub-Saharan Africa, disrupting agriculture and food security.
The study highlights NTD-O2’s potential as a future treatment for onchocerciasis and animal African trypanosomiasis. If further trials succeed, the medicine could provide a much-needed solution for affected communities in Ghana and beyond. For now, the findings mark an important step toward integrating traditional remedies into modern healthcare systems.
