Leishmaniasis is caused by Leishmania parasites, which are spread by the bite of phlebotomine
sand flies. There are several different forms of leishmaniasis in people. The most common
forms are cutaneous leishmaniasis, which causes skin sores, and visceral leishmaniasis, which
affects several internal organs (usually spleen, liver, and bone marrow). It usually is more common
in rural than in urban areas, but also in the outskirts of some cities. Cutaneous leishmaniasis
usually heal on their own, even without treatment, but this can take months or even years
leaving ugly scars. Mucosal leishmaniasis might not be noticed until years after the original
sores healed. Ensuring adequate treatment of the cutaneous infection may help prevent mucosal
leishmaniasis. Visceral form If not treated, severe or advanced cases are fatal.
The pentavalent antimonial compounds; Pentostam® is the first line anti-Leishmania treatment.
However, its effect on human body was not well evaluated as compared with two plants extracted
(Black seed oil and Curcumin) with anti-parasitic activities. The effect of the three was studied
in experimentally infected Swiss Albino mice