RETHINKING TYPHOID THERAPY: HERBAL MEDICINE AS A SUPPORTIVE STRATEGY FOR RECURRENCE

Typhoid fever, primarily caused by Salmonella typhi, remains a major health burden in many developing countries, especially where access to clean water and sanitation is limited. Recurrent typhoid poses a serious challenge, often resulting from incomplete eradication of the pathogen or antibiotic resistance. Although antibiotics are the standard treatment, increasing resistance and relapses necessitate exploration of complementary therapies. This review critically evaluates the use of herbal medicine in managing recurrent typhoid, with emphasis on their antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and gut-restorative properties. Notable herbs discussed include Azadirachta indica (Neem), Zingiber officinale (Ginger), Curcuma longa (Turmeric), Allium sativum (Garlic), Ocimum sanctum (Basil), Andrographis paniculata, and Echinacea purpurea, alongside the supportive use of probiotics. Evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and traditional knowledge suggests these herbs may alleviate symptoms, support immune recovery, and reduce relapse rates when used adjunctively with antibiotics. However, variation in herbal quality, lack of dosage standardization, and potential herb-drug interactions remain critical concerns. Therefore, while herbal remedies show promise, they must be integrated cautiously and scientifically into typhoid treatment plans. Future clinical trials are essential to validate the therapeutic claims and optimize the safety profile of these herbal interventions. A comprehensive healthcare approach combining conventional antibiotics and evidence-based herbal medicine may offer a holistic strategy for managing recurrent typhoid effectively.