Traditional medicine has been used for many years in Africa to manage various health conditions, including metabolic syndrome. Aim: to assess the use and efficacy of African traditional medicine for metabolic syndrome in Africa while compiling a comprehensive list of the medicinal plants traditionally employed.

This systematic review was conducted, encompassing observational and interventional epidemiological studies focused on traditional medicine and the effects of medicinal plants on metabolic syndrome across all African countries. Field studies were retrieved using databases such as ScienceDirect, Medline/PubMed, and Google Scholar. PRISMA recommendations were followed.

Among the 2958 articles identified, 11 studies were included (10 randomized controlled trials and 1 single-arm clinical trial). A total of 12 plant species belonging to 10 different genera and 10 families were recorded in 6 African countries. The most frequently reported species were Acacia senegal (L.) Willd. ( n = 2) and Cissus quadrangularis L. ( n = 2). Predominantly, whole plants ( n = 4) and leaves ( n = 3) were mainly used. Various methods for preparing plant-based remedies have been employed, with the use of encapsulated powder extracts ( n = 4) and powder extracts dissolved in water ( n = 4) being the most common techniques. Data from clinical trials provided evidence that these plants have regulatory effects on glycemia (reduction in fasting blood glucose by up to 25.3 %), lipid levels (triglycerides by 36.8 %, and increases in HDL by up to 50.5 %), and blood pressure, as well as contributing to weight reduction, all supported by significant results. Few side effects were reported, including mild hypoglycemia, intestinal flatulence and nausea.

This systematic review underscores the need for collaborative research between traditional healers and medical practitioners to bridge the knowledge gap regarding traditional medicine's effects on metabolic syndrome.