Southern African medicinal plants used to treat skin diseases

• Review of plants of South African importance that are used traditionally for dermatological conditions.
• Gaps in current research in the field are identified.
• Major focus is needed for previously neglected dermatologically relevant pathogens.
• Combination studies should incorporate plant species traditionally used for skin ailments.
• Also important is wound healing, toxicity and anti-inflammatory effects of plants used on the skin.

This overview of southern African medicinal plants of dermatological relevance explores the fundamental knowledge available on the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties of medicinal plants used to treat skin ailments. Also included is an overview undertaken on the phytochemistry and toxicity of plants used in treatments related to diseases of the skin. Some findings include the predominance of leaf material used (48%), as well as the frequent use of decoctions (35%). Dermatological skin pathogens such as Propionibacterium acnes, Microsporum canis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Epidermophyton floccosum are recommended for study in future antimicrobial research. Attention to these aspects should lead to new directives for commercialization and provide insight towards the understanding of some neglected plant species used for the treatment of skin diseases.