Favour Okore 
In recent years, Nigeria has witnessed a significant increase in the cost of pharmaceutical drugs. This surge has forced many Nigerians to seek alternative healthcare solutions, with traditional medicine becoming a popular choice.
The economic situation in Nigeria has been challenging, with many citizens struggling to afford basic necessities, including healthcare.
The rising cost of drugs is a major concern, as it puts essential medications out of the reach for a large proportion of the population. According to a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the cost of conventional pharmaceuticals has been steadily increasing, making them less accessible to the average Nigerian.
“I used to buy my blood pressure medication regularly,” said Mrs. Adeola, a 54-year-old mother of three. “But now, it’s just too expensive. I have to find another way.”
That “other way” for Mrs. Adeola and many like her has been resorting to traditional medicine. Often more affordable and readily available, these remedies offer a lifeline in times of financial hardship.
Traditional medicine in Nigeria is not a new phenomenon. Long before the advent of modern pharmaceuticals, communities relied on herbal remedies and the wisdom of traditional healers. These practices have been passed down through generations, deeply embedded in the culture of Nigerian society.
Olufemi, a renowned traditional healer, explains, “Our ancestors knew the power of the plants around them. They used what was available to them, and it worked.
Today, people are coming back to these roots because they trust them.” This trust is a significant factor in the resurgence of traditional medicine.
For many, the familiarity and cultural acceptance of these remedies make them a preferred choice over unfamiliar and expensive pharmaceuticals. In rural areas, where healthcare facilities and pharmacies are scarce, traditional medicine practitioners are often the first point of contact for health issues.
These practitioners are accessible, affordable, and provide immediate care, making them an invaluable resource for those living in remote regions. “I live in a village where the nearest hospital is miles away,” said Mr. Chukwu, a farmer. “But the traditional healer is just down the road.
When my children fall ill, I know I can get help quickly.” Mr. Toheeb, a wholesaler of traditional medicines, claimed that people resort to using traditional medicines because they are more effective. He also stated that he supplies many outlets in the community, which then sell these products to consumers.
Additionally, he mentioned that local medicine is more effective in curing diseases and boosting the immune system compared to pharmaceutically produced drugs.
However, traditional medicine is not as strictly regulated as conventional medicine, leading to concerns about their safety and efficacy of some treatments. Dr. Adebayo, a medical doctor in Lagos, cautions, “While traditional medicine can be effective, it’s important to ensure that what you’re using is safe.
Not all traditional remedies are validated, and misuse can lead to serious health issues.” Recognising the importance of traditional medicine, the Nigerian government has begun to integrate it into the national healthcare system. Efforts are underway to develop policies and regulations that ensure the safety and efficacy of traditional remedies.
Additionally, there is a push to promote research and development in this field to validate and improve traditional treatments. Despite the challenges, traditional medicine offers a beacon of hope.
It is a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the Nigerian people, who continue to find ways to thrive despite the odds. The rising cost of pharmaceutical drugs has undoubtedly placed a strain on many Nigerians, but the resurgence of traditional medicine provides an alternative that is both culturally significant and economically viable.
