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Research Article Open access CC BY 4.0

Perception and Acceptance of Herbal Medicines among Residents of Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Kemzi N. Elechi-Amadi, Ojoye N. Briggs, Felix E. Konne, Lynda K. Giami, Benjamin C. Ajufo

Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medical Research · pp. 24–34 · Published 1 Feb 2021

10.9734/jocamr/2020/v12i330209

Abstract

Background: The use of herbal medicines and medicinal plants available in a locality in the treatment and control of human diseases, promotion of health and management of health conditions will continue to play a significant role in the healthcare system of the people, especially in developing countries. This cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the perception and knowledge of usage of herbal medicines among the residents of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Methodology: Multi-stage sampling technique was used for this study. Results: The results indicated that out of the 273 questionnaires returned, 118 (44.9%) of the respondents were male while 144 (55.1%) were female. The average age of the respondents was 36±10 years. The prevalence of usage of herbal medicine from this study was 80.9%. The major source of information about herbal medicines was home (family and friends).The results also indicate that 180 (68.6%) of the respondents did not experience unpleasant effects such as headaches, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea, with the use of herbal medicines. Similarly, on the reasons for using herbal medicine, 134 (51.1%) of the respondents indicated that they used herbal medicines because they are effective, 66 (25.3%) said herbal medicines are always available mostly as locally sourced herbs, while 46 (17.7%) said herbal medicines are not costly. On the perception of herbal medicines, 206 (78.6%) indicated that herbal medicines are efficacious, 197 (75.3%) supported the integration of herbal medicines into the conventional health system, 243 (92.6%) supported the establishment of a Board to regulate the practice of herbal medicine in order to prevent indiscriminate use of herbal medicines while 234 (89.9%) of the respondents supported the establishment of a formal training institution for herbal medicine practitioners. Conclusion: It is concluded that herbal medicines have wide acceptability and perception among the study population. It is recommended that herbal medical practice be properly regulated and integrated into the conventional health system.

Herbal medicine perception knowledge Port Harcourt Nigeria.

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