Expert advocates scientific, standardization, proper documentation of traditional medicine in Nigeria

By David Odama

Experts in the health sector have called for collaboration and integration of traditional medicine into the healthcare system in Nigeria for a healthier society.

Speaking at the second webinar series of the Centre for Cultural Studies of the Federal University of Lafia, on Wednesday, the health experts said there was urgent need for scientific proof, standardization, and proper documentation of traditional medicine to ensure its safety and effective use in the country.

Delivering a paper on, “Revisiting Bioactive Plans In Traditional Healing: A Microbiological Appraisal”, the Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences in the university, Prof Aleruchi Chuku, called for sustained collaboration between relevant stakeholders to scientifically validate traditional medicine at the event tagged, “Revisiting Our Past: Bridging Indigenous Wisdom And Modern Medicine For A Healthier Future”, the experts

“There is urgent need to come together to scientifically prove what traditionalists have been doing and document it so that drugs can be measured in dosage for both children and adults”, she said.

While advocating for the establishment of a national herbal database, standardisation framewwork for dosage preparation, promotion of safe usage, proper dosing and hygiene in traditional herbal practice, Chuku further urged the government at all levels to invest in clinical trials of key medicinal plants in order to improve the healths of the citizens.

On his part, the Provost, College of Medicine, FULafia, Prof Ali Shugaba explained that traditional therapies can supplement modern healthcare, but requires integration, care, and consideration.

“We can use traditional therapies for preventative care, mental health, and some chronic diseases,” he said.

He urged the government to work towards integrating traditional medicine into the healthcare system.

Also speaking, Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies in the University, Prof Victor Dugga, stressed the need for documentation and digitislppllll indigenous African medical knowledge and art forms, adding that the African Traditional Medicine system knowledge had not been properly documented.

The Director, Centre for Cultural Studies, FULafia, Prof Zara Kwaghe, stated that the University will henceforth reach out to communities and partner with traditional healers to promote a healthier society, added that the Centre aims to bring out the best in the communities as part of its social responsibility.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of FULafia, Prof Shehu Abdul-Rahman represented by the Dean, Faculty of Management Sciences, Prof Muhammad Kida emphasised the importance of collaboration with stakeholders in advancing research outcomes in indigenous knowledge for a healthy society.

He stressed the significance of assessing the relevance of traditional medicine to modern healthcare through collaborative efforts between stakeholders.

According to him, the aim of the webinar was to provide a platform for other researchers, university community, and the external community to collaborate and synergise to come up with research outcomes that will be useful to the community and the field of academy.

A traditional healer, Isa Anbana in his reaction to the discussion emphasised the effectiveness of traditional medicine in treating various ailments, including skin diseases.

“Traditional healers refer patients to hospitals when necessary and transfer knowledge to others who are obedient and abide by the terms and conditions,” he added.

In a goodwill message, the Pioneer Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Ekanem Braide commended the current management of the institution for initiating the programme, and suggested that traditional medicine practitioners should be part of the university’s faculties and College of Medicine to impart knowledge.

Our correspondent reports that the webinar encouraged members to share their findings and engage in discussions on bridging the gap between indigenous wisdom and modern medicine.