Sickle cell anemia is a genetically inherited disease in which the ââ?¬Å?SSââ?¬Â individual possesses an abnormal beta globin gene. A single\r\nbase substitution in the gene encoding the human ??-globin subunit results in replacement of ??6 glutamic acid by valine, leading to\r\nthe devastating clinical manifestations of sickle cell disease. This substitution causes drastic reduction in the solubility of sickle\r\ncell hemoglobin (HbS) when deoxygenated. Under these conditions, the HbS molecules polymerize to form long crystalline\r\nintracellular mass of fibers which are responsible for the deformation of the biconcave disc shaped erythrocyte into a sickle\r\nshape. First-line clinical management of sickle cell anemia include, use of hydroxyurea, folic acid, amino acids supplementation,\r\npenicillinprophylaxis, and antimalarial prophylaxis to manage the condition and blood transfusions to stabilize the patientââ?¬â?¢s\r\nhemoglobin level. These are quite expensive and have attendant risk factors. However, a bright ray of hope involving research\r\ninto antisickling properties of medicinal plants has been rewarding. This alternative therapy using phytomedicines has proven to\r\nnot only reduce crisis but also reverse sickling (in vitro). The immense benefits of phytomedicines and nutraceuticals used in the\r\nmanagement of sickle cell anemia are discussed in this paper.
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