Navigating the Challenges of Integrating African Herbal Medicines: A Path to Universal Acceptance Herbal Medicines
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Abstract
Herbal medicine, deeply rooted in indigenous knowledge, presents a longstanding approach to global
healthcare, particularly in Africa. This review comprehensively explores the holistic nature of Traditional
and Complementary Medicine (T&CM), with specific emphasis on the significance of herbal medicine.
Despite its long-standing use and efficacy, herbal medicine faces challenges in universal acceptance and
integration into mainstream healthcare systems. Factors influencing acceptance, from inadequate
standardisation to societal stigma, are examined comprehensively. Understanding the motivations behind
herbal medicine usage, including prevention, curiosity, and natural beliefs, is crucial for shaping future
healthcare policies and comprehending public attitudes. Global initiatives, exemplified by the WHO
Global Centre for Traditional Medicine, and national endeavours in countries like Nigeria and Ghana,
underscore collaborative approaches. The review concludes by emphasizing the necessity of addressing
divergent stakeholder perspectives for effective integration. Proposed strategies involve collaborative
research, international endorsements, adverse-event reporting systems, governmental support,
inventorying, botanical gardens, testing laboratories, standardised dosage norms, and education initiatives.
These measures aim to seamlessly integrate traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare, promote
evidence-based practices, and enhance regulations—crucial steps toward fostering acceptance.
Addressing challenges and fostering acceptance is imperative for ensuring the safe and effective utilisation
of traditional medicines, thereby enhancing healthcare outcomes and overall well-being globally.
Keywords: Herbal Remedies, Integrative Medicine, Traditional Medicine, Complementary Therapies
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Authors retain copyright of their work, with first publication rights granted to Fountain Journal of Natural and Applied Sciences. Articles in FUJNAS are published on the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license (CC BY 4.0).
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