The Effect of Artemisinin-Based Combined Therapy with Salacca Edullis Reinw Seed Extract on Malondialdehyde (MDA) Level in Mice Malaria Model

Background: Malaria is an infectious disease caused by parasite Plasmodium sp., while infection with malaria can cause an excessive increase in free radicals and damage several organs. This study evaluated the effect of artemisinin-based combined therapy with Salacca edullis reinw (Zalacca) seed extract on malondialdehyde (MDA) level in mice malaria model. Methods: Using a post-test design randomized method, 48 male white mice were divided into 6 groups, including 2 control and 4 treatment groups, while they were inoculated with Plasmodium berghei ANKA. Follow-up was undertaken for 14 days when comparing the groups. Artemisinin and zalacca seed extract were used in treatment groups of malaria infection. Results: The treatment with artemisinin and zalacca seed extract revealed a significant decrease in MDA level in mice infected to malaria. Conclusion: Zallaca seed extract was demonstrated to reduce MDA level in mice infected to malaria. Even administration of artemisinin alone could reduce the MDA level, but was not significant. Treatment with a combination of artemisinin and zallaca seed extract was shown to significantly lower MDA level in malaria infection.