Evaluation of the effectiveness of Saponaria officinalis plant on the infection of Biomphalaria alexandrina snails with Schistosoma mansoni

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is one of the most prevalent tropical diseases worldwide and the second most common parasite in the world after malaria in terms of the number of cases and endemic areas. As resistance to praziquantel, the recommended medication as natural products of plants and easily biodegradable for treating schistosomiasis, grows, more sophisticated treatments are being looked for. Saponaria officinalis contains a rich array of bioactive compounds, including saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acidh, which have demonstrated various pharmacological properties. The stem of the plant was dried and grinded to prepare five different concentrations with three replicates for each and testing against "Biomphalaria alexandrina snails. Results showed that the lethal concentration that led to the mortality of all snails was 175 ppm of the while LC10, LC25, LC50 and LC90 were 67.43, 88.05, 110.95 and 154.46 ppm respectively. The study offers plenty of opportunity to use native resources in the area to find molluscicidal agents for harmful snails.