Study shows flower nectar can inhibit the parasite that causes leishmaniasis

According to a new study published in the scientific journal PLOS Neglected Tropical DiseasesHE some flower nectar plants has the ability to inhibit infections caused by leishmaniasis. Researchers say flowers like sunflowers can reduce the growth of the disease-causing parasite.

According to the results of the study, their concentration Chemical compounds found in the nectar of flowers were responsible for inhibiting the growth of the parasite.. Even growing these plants in a lab can increase compounds that help reduce the cause of the disease.

this the infection is transmitted by mosquitoes of the blood-sucking sandfly family.It also feeds on flower nectar. In other words, the disease can be prevented more easily in regions where insects consume more nectar.

“Unlike insecticide-based sand fly control methods, the incorporation of anti-parasitic nectar sources into landscapes and domestic environments can benefit public health without threatening other beneficial insects,” said the study author, affiliated with the Bee Research Laboratory. USDA-ARS (Agricultural Agriculture) Research Service, USA), Evan Palmer-Young.

savior nectar

According to the researchers, the discovery proposes a new approach to controlling midges, using plant nectar to feed the transmitters and prevent disease – currently the control of these insects is driven by insecticides that can affect the nature around them. Thus, the new option is also better to contribute to the environment and use its own resources.

According to the World Health Organization, the infection often occurs in some of the poorest parts of the world and is often transmitted to people with malnutrition and low immunity levels.

“This suggests that consumption of nectars rich in secondary metabolites can reduce transmission of the parasite, reduce infection density in nectar-eating sandfly vectors, and point to a new disease control strategy without drugs and pesticides,” the authors wrote. scientists told Medical Express.