ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE IN NIGERIA
BY
OSHIN HAMMED EBENEZER
MED/17/18/0058
A LONG ESSAY SUBMITTED TO
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY MEDICINE AND PRIMARY CARE, FACULTY OF
CLINICAL SCIENCES, OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY.
IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF
MBCHB DEGREE IN MEDICINE.
NOVEMBER, 2023
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that this long essay was written by OSHIN HAMMED EBENEZER with the
matriculation number Med/17/18/0058 under my supervision in the department of community
medicine and primary health care, Obafemi
Awolowo College of Health science, Olabisi
Onabanjo University, Sagamu, Ogun state.
_________________
DATE_______________
DR ALABI A.D
HEAD OF DEPARTMENT, COMMUNITY MEDICINE AND PRIMARY CARE
________________
DATE_____________
DR AMORAN O.E.
SUPERVISOR
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that this write up presented herein was done by me and all assistances received
herein are duly acknowledged.
_____________________
DATE________________
OSHIN HAMMED EBENEZER
MED/17/18/0058
DEDICATION
I DEDICATE THIS LONG ESSAY TO ALMIGHTY GOD, THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF
MY FAITH, FOR HIS GUIDANCE AND SUFFICIENT GRACE THROUGHOUT THE
COURSE OF MY STUDY IN THIS COLLEGE.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
FIRST, ALL GLORY BE TO JESUS, THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH. I
WOULD LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE MY SUPERVISOR, DR AMORAN O. E. FOR HIS
PATIENCE AND GUIDANCE THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD OF THIS WRITING. I
WOULD ALSO LIKE TO APPRECIATE MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS FOR THEIR
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARDS THIS PROJECT. MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU ALL.
CONTENTS
1. Title page
2. Certification
3. Dedication
4. Acknowledgement
5. Chapter one:
Introduction to alternative medicine
6. Chapter two:
Alternative medicine in Nigeria
7. Chapter three:
Other forms of alternative medicine practiced around the
world
8. Chapter four:
Limitations and future of alternative medicine in Nigeria
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
As people become increasingly concerned about their health, more and more people have begun
to seek a more ‘natural‘ cure for ailments and this has led to the increasing prevalence of the use
of alternative medicine globally (Hartel et al, 2004). The objective of medicine is to address
people’s unavoidable needs for emotional and physical healing. The discipline has evolved over
millennia by drawing on the religious beliefs and social structures of numerous indigenous
peoples, by exploiting natural products in their environments, and more recently by developing
and validating therapeutic and preventive approaches using the scientific method.
Public health and medical practices have now advanced to a point at which people can anticipate—
and even feel entitled to—lives that are longer and of better quality than ever before in human
history. Yet despite the pervasiveness, power, and promise of contemporary medical science, large
segments of humanity either cannot access its benefits or choose not to do so. More than 80 percent
of people in developing nations can barely afford the most basic medical procedures, drugs, and
vaccines. In the industrial nations, a surprisingly large proportion of people opt for practices and
products for which proof as to their safety and efficacy is modest at best, practices that in the
aggregate are known as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) or as traditional medicine
(TM) (Astin, J. A. 1998).
We refer to medical practices that evolved with indigenous peoples and that they have introduced
to other countries through emigration as traditional medicine. We refer to approaches that emerged
primarily in Western, industrial countries during the past two centuries as scientific or Western
medicine, although we acknowledge that not all Western medicine is based on scientifically proven
knowledge. WHO in 2000 in providing a global view of traditional medicine tried to put this
health care systems in uniform perspective by describing Traditional Medicine as “the sum total
of the knowledge, skills and practice based on the theories, belief and experiences indigenous to
different cultures, whether explicable or not, used in the maintenance of health as well as in the
prevention, diagnosis, improvement or treatment of physical and mental illnesses” The terms
complementary and alternative describe practices and products that people choose as adjuncts to
or as alternatives to Western medical approaches. (Kaptchuk and Eisenberg 2001; Straus 2004).
Alternative Medicine is a term commonly used to include all the healing practice that does not fall
within the realm of conventional. Alternative medicine is distinct from complementary medicine
which is meant to accompany, not to replace, standard medical practices. Standard care is what
medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy and allied health professionals, such as registered nurses
and physical therapists. Alternative medicine means treatments that you use instead of
standard ones (Bratman M et al, 1997). It can be defined as a variety of therapeutic or preventive
health care practices, such as homeopathy, naturopathy, chiropractic, and herbal medicine that do
not follow generally accepted medical methods and may not have a scientific explanation for
their effectiveness.
National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH in 2017, classified
Complementary and alternative medicine therapies into five categories:





Alternative medical systems like Homeopathy, Ayuverda and Naturopathy;
Mindbody interventions such as psychotherapy, meditation and prayer;
Biologically-based systems, including herbalism and nutritional supplements;
Manipulative
and
body-based
methods,
such
as
chiropractic
and
massage therapy; and
Energy therapies like Reiki and use of direct current fields for healing. Chiropractic
manipulation, herbal medicine, nutritional supplementation, massage and homeopathy
were the most commonly used (Frass, M., et al 2012).
CHAPTER TWO
Nigeria has one of the most varied ecosystems and expanse bio-resources and biodiversity. Its
biodiversity is an important source of food, medicines and natural products. The natural products
form the basis for varied traditional medicine systems that have been in existence and sustained
the people for thousands of years. The traditional medicine practices of Nigeria are as diverse as
the people of Nigeria which is made up of more than 300 ethnic communities. Now of all the forms
of alternative medicine, herbal medicine is the most practiced and widespread in Nigeria.
HERBAL MEDICINE
Herbal Medicine is called “Botanical or Phytotherapy,” and it refers to using a plant’s seeds,
berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes. A botanical is a plant or plant part
valued for its medicinal or therapeutic properties, flavor, and/or scent. Herbs are a subset of
botanicals. Products made from botanicals that are used to maintain or improve health may be
called herbal products, botanical products, or phytomedicines. They are sold as tablets, capsules,
powders, teas, extracts, and fresh or dried plants. People use herbal medicines to try to maintain
or improve their health. Many people believe that products labeled “natural” are always safe and
good for them. This is not necessarily true. Herbal medicines do not have to go through the testing
that drugs do. Some herbs, such as comfrey and ephedra, can cause serious harm. Some herbs can
interact with prescription or over-the-counter medicines. People who are thinking about using
herbal medicine should first get information on it from reliable sources (Ernst
1998)
The terms “spice” and “herb” have both been used to describe parts of plants (possibly dried) that
are used to enhance the flavor or taste of food. Spices and herbs are parts of plants (fresh or dried).
In addition, herbs have been used to augment cosmetics, preserve foods, and cure illnesses. The
difference between the two is where they are obtained from a plant. Herbs come from the leafy
and green part of the plant, while Spices are parts of the plant other than the leafy bit such as the
root, stem, bulb, bark, or seeds. Examples of herbs include basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary,
parsley, and mint. Spices are usually dried before being used to season foods. Some examples for
spices are cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and pepper. Unlike herbs, they are grown in more tropical
countries. Spices have also been known to preserve foods and some have medicinal value, such as
turmeric with its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. Over time, the definitions for spices
and herbs have changed a bit. In the past, spices have been categorized as fragrant, aromatic plant
products like cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and pepper and are found in plants grown in tropical and
subtropical regions of the world. While herbs have always been recognized as the most green,
leafy products like mint, rosemary, and thyme are grown in more temperate areas. Some plants are
both herbs and spices. The leaves of Coriandrum sativum are the source of cilantro (herb), while
coriander (spice) is from the plant’s seeds. Dill is another example. The seeds are a spice, while
dill weed is an herb derived from the plant’s stems and leaves. Examples of herbs are thyme, sage,
oregano, parsley, marjoram, basil, rosemary, and mint; while examples of spices are cinnamon
(bark of the cinnamon tree), ginger/root, cloves/flower bud, saffron—stigma (female reproductive
part) of saffron crocus, nutmeg/seed, and cumin/seeds (Kaur et al. 2013).
Table 2: Some selected medicinal plants used in the traditional treatment of various ailments in
Nigeria.
S/N
FAMILY
1
Acanthaceae
2
Acanthaceae
3
. Acanthaceae
4
Amaranthaceae
5
Amaranthaceae
SCIENTIFIC
HABIT PARTS
NAME
USED
Asystasia
Herbs
Whole
gangetica (L.) T.
plant
Anders
Elytraria
herbs
leaves
marginata Vahl
MEDICINAL USES
Stomachache,
pain,
chest
wounds
Phaulopsis ciliata herbs
(Wild.)Hepper
Aerva lanata (L.) Herbs
Juss. ex Schult
Whole
plants
Whole
plants
Wounds,
laxative
Alternanthera
sessilis (L.)
Brex
Herbs
Leaves,
whole
plants
Antibacterial,
astringent, headache
Leaves,
roots,
seeds
Leaves,
bulbs
Leaves,
fruits,
stem
bark
Leaves,
barks
Diuretic,
diarrhea
R.
6
. Amaranthaceae
Celosia argentea L Herbs
7
Amaryllidaceae
8
Anacardiaceae
Crinum
jagus Herbs
Baker
Anacardium
Trees
occidentale L
9
Anacardiaceae
Mangifera indica Trees
L
Pile, astringent
Ulcers, wounds, snake
bite,
diuretic,
purgative
gonorrhea,
Anthelmintics,
purgative
Typhoid fever, malaria,
cough,
haemmorhoids
Malaria,
diabetes,
dysentery
diarrhoea,
sore-throat,
10
Anacardiaceae
Spondias mombin Trees
L.
Fruits,
barks,
leaves
Diuretic, fever,
gonorrhea
cold,
Source: (Odugbemi, 2008)
Table 2 Benefits and possible side effects of some important herbs
S/N HERBS
1
Peppermints
2
Parsley
3
Aloe vera
BENEFITS
Used for the cold, cough, sinus infections,
and respiratory infections. It is
also used for digestive problems
including heartburn, nausea, vomiting,
morning sickness, irritable bowel syn
drome,
cramps
of
the
upper
gastrointestinal tract and bile ducts, upset
stomach, diarrhea, bacterial overgrowth
of the small intestine, and gas. Pepper
mint oil is applied to the skin for
headache, muscle pain, nerve pain,
toothache, inflammation of the mouth,
joint conditions, itchiness, allergic rash,
bacterial and viral infections, relaxing
the colon during barium enemas
Parsley is used for urinary tract infec
tions, kidney stones (nephrolithiasis),
gastrointestinal disorders, constipation,
jaundice, intestinal gas (flatulence),
indigestion, colic, diabetes, cough,
asthma, fluid retention (edema), osteo
arthritis, “tired blood” (anemia), high
blood pressure, prostate conditions, and
spleen conditions. Protects against
rheumatoid arthritis, antioxidant rich,
fights cancer, and high in vitamin C and
iron
SIDE EFFECTS
Peppermint can cause some
side
effects
including heartburn and
allergic reactions, including
flushing,
headache,
and mouth sores. Large
quantities
of
peppermint
oil
could
damage the kidneys (Herbs:
Benefits and Information.
Herbwisdom.com)
In some people, parsley can
cause
allergic skin reactions. It is
very
high
in
oxalic acid, 1.70 mg per
100
g.
Prolonged consumption of
oxalate
rich
foods may result in gouty
arthritis,
kidney stones, and mineral
nutrient
deficiencies (Healthy herbs
nutrition
fact: www.nutrition-andyou.com)
Anti-inflammatory,
antiproliferative, Hepatotoxicity (Yang et al.
antiaging, wound healing, recovery 2010),
from burn injury, cell growth, and abdominal spasms, pain,
immune modulation
allergic reactions, cramps,
and
kidney
damage
(Kaur et al. 2013)
4
Dill
5
Rosemary
6
Dandellion
Used for digestion problems, including
loss of appetite, flatulence, and liver
problems. It is also used for urinary tract
disorders, including kidney disease and
painful or difficult urination. Treatment
of fever and colds, cough, hemorrhoids,
infections, nerve pain, genital ulcers,
and menstrual cramps
Accepted as a very powerful antioxidant,
anti-inflammatory,
antiviral,
and
antibacterial. Studies have also shown
that carnosic acid in rosemary offers
protection against harmful carcinogens
and Alzheimer’s disease
Fresh dandelion herb is one of the
highest source of vitamin A among
culinary herbs; it provides 10161 IU of
vitamin-A per 100 g, that is antioxidant
and required for maintaining healthy
mucus membranes and skin. A good
source of minerals and vital vitamins,
including
folic
acid,
riboflavin,
pyridoxine, niacin, vitamins E and C, all
are
essential for optimum health. Rich in
vitamin K which helps for increasing
bone mass and has established role in
Alzheimer’s disease by limiting neuronal
damage in the brain
Dill can sometimes cause
skin irritation. Fresh dill
juice can also cause the
skin to become extra
sensitive
to
the
sun (Herbs: Benefits and
Information.
Herbwisdom.com)
The undiluted oil is unsafe
to take by mouth; taking
large amounts can cause
vomiting, uterine bleeding,
kidney irritation, increased
sun
sensitivity,
skin
redness,
and
allergic
reactions (Healthy herbs
nutrition
fact:
www.
nutrition-and-you.com)
In patients on potassium
sparing
diuretic therapy, it may
aggravate
potassium
toxicity.
Dandelion
herb
can
also induce allergic contact
dermatitis
in
some
sensitive
individuals
(Healthy
herbs
nutrition
fact:
www.nutritionandyou.com)
Table 3: Benefits and possible side effects of some important Spices
S/N
SPICE
1
Turmeric
BENEFITS
Antibacterial, anticancer, antifungal,
antioxidant, hypoglycemic, colorant,
antiseptic, and wound healer
SIDE EFFECTS
Risk of bleeding or potentiate
the
effects of warfarin therapy
(Heck
et al. 2000).
2
Nutmeg
3
Ginger
4
Thyme
5
Ginseng
6
Cinnamon
Used as a flavoring agent for baked
goods, desserts, and some beverages.
Used medicinally as a digestive aid and
to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Used for
diarrhea, nausea, stomach spasms and
pain, and intestinal gas. They are also
used for treating cancer, kidney disease,
and trouble sleeping (insomnia)
Useful in motion sickness, morning
sickness, colic, upset stomach, gas,
diarrhea, nausea caused by cancer
treatment, arthritis or muscle soreness,
menstrual pain, upper respiratory tract
infections, cough, and bronchitis, chest
pain, and stomach pain
Thyme is taken by mouth for whooping
cough, sore throat, colic, arthritis, upset
stomach, stomach pain (gastritis), diar
rhea, intestinal gas (flatulence), parasitic
worm infections, and skin disorders. It is
also used to increase urine flow (as a
diuretic), to disinfect the urine and as an
appetite stimulant. Essential oil of
thyme contains 20–54 % thymol which
possesses antiseptic and antifungal
properties, used in a variety of products,
and used also for treatment of respiratory
infections
Used for conditions of the heart and
blood vessels. Used also for kidney
disease, Alzheimer’s disease, attention
deficit-hyperactivity disorder, chronic
fatigue syndrome, diabetes, rheumatoid
arthritis, flu, colds, chronic bronchitis,
and tuberculosis. It is also used for
treating the side effects of cancer
chemotherapy
Cinnamon has antioxidant, antidiabetic,
antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, warming,
soothing, and carminative properties. It
contains essential oils such as eugenol
which is antiseptic and useful in dental
and gum treatment. Active principles in
this spice may increase the motility of
the intestinal tract and help in the
Nausea,
vomiting,
difficulty urinating, dizziness,
constipation, dry mouth. More
serious side effects might
include
hallucinations,
seizures, and death (Venables
et al. 1976)
Side effects include heartburn,
diarrhea, and general stomach
discomfort
(Antoine 2007)
It can cause digestive system
upset.
In
some people, applying the oil
to
the
skin can cause irritation. There
is
not
enough information to know
whether
thyme oil is safe to take by
mouth
in
medicinal doses (Mold~aoMartins
et al. 2000)
Some people can have
drowsiness,
changes in heart rhythm, and
muscle
spasms. It could also cause skin
rashes,
asthma attacks, increased blood
pressure, diarrhea, euphoria,
and nervousness (Kaur et al.
2013)
Excessive use of the cinnamon
stick
may cause inflammation of
taste
buds,
gum swelling, and mouth
ulcers.
Large
quantities can cause difficulty
breathing, dilate blood vessels,
digestion
power
by
increasing
gastrointestinal enzyme secretions. An
excellent
source of minerals, vitamin A, and
flavonoid phenolic antioxidants such as
carotenes
sleepiness,
and depression (Healthy herbs
nutrition
fact:
www.nutrition-andyou.com)
CHAPTER THREE
OTHER FORMS OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE AROUND THE WORLD
AYURVEDA
Ayurveda is the oldest medical system available on the planet today. It is a science of life,
prevention and longevity. It was written 5000 years ago in India and is preserved till date. It
contained information of medicinal herbs to treat various diseases known to man. The ancient
healing techniques were part of the Santana dharma (universal religion), or Vedic religion. Veda
Vaasa, the famous sage, put into writing the complete knowledge of Ayurveda, along with the
more directly spiritual insights of self realization into a body of scriptural literature called
the Vedas and the Vedic literatures. There were originally four main books of spirituality, which
included among other topics, health, astrology, spiritual business, government, army, poetry and
spiritual living and behavior. These books are known as the four Vedas; Rik, Sama, Yajur and
Atharva. The Rik Veda contains verses on the nature of health and disease, pathogenesis and
principles of treatment.
Ayurveda makes use of herbs, foods, aromas, gems, colors, yoga, mantras,
lifestyle and surgery. Yoga is widely used now a days, though it is described in ayurvedic text
(Fontanarosa P et al, 1998). It focuses on balance of the mind, body, and spirit. Hundreds of
different herbs are used to protect the body against diseases, relieve pain and improve general
health. Ayurveda is a part of the Indian system of Yoga. This ancient science deals with the healing
of the human body and mind to achieve optimum balance between the body, mind and
consciousness. The system tries to fix various imbalances in the body and makes use of herbs and
natural products to treat the body. This system is used in conjunction with the ancient Indian
system of Yoga Asanas and breathing exercises to gain optimum results.
Basic principles of ayurveda and its philosophy states that Human body is made up of five
principles. These are Air (Akasa), Vital Force (Vayu), Minerals, Acids, Alkalies etc (Tejas), Water
(Jala) and Organic substances and Earthy matter ( Prithvi). In Ayurveda, combination of
these principles is classified into three: Vayu – Vata-Mayu or Pitta- Valasa – Kapha. The First is
a combination of Air and Vital Force, The second is Minerals, acids and alkalies and the third is a
combination of Water and Organic matter. These three Mega Divisions (Tridhatus) build and
sustain all parts of the body. One Dhatu (Mega Division) may be more active in one part of the
body compared to the other. Ayurveda recognizes this difference and balance which keeps the
body healthy. When these Mega divisions are displaced or in imbalance due to factors like food,
age, various daily activities, time and place, they cause disease (Renckens C., 2009).
The ayurvedic doctor this to find out the cause of such disease and eliminate it from the source.
The Pacification of the imbalance can be undertaken by the Ayurveda doctor after studying the
pulse of the patient. He looks for intensity, pattern, kind of throbbing and other complex variations
to understand where the possible cause of the problem can be. The treatment is with a combination
of natural herbs and minerals ingested or inhaled and Yoga Asanas. The herbs and minerals are
normally not processed as per modern medicine but comparatively raw. These heavy minerals and
herbs can be effective in fixing some common ailments but should be taken under supervision or
can cause damage to internal organs. Careful monitoring by a trained person can give lasting
benefits.
The Elimination of the imbalance to get to the root of the problem causing the disease is a complex
process. The Panchkarma’ treatment is a specialized tool in Ayurveda employed for the purpose
of ‘Elimination. As the name suggests it comprises of five basic steps: Vamana- Emesis,
Virechana- Purgation, Vasti – Enema, Nasya- Enrhine therapy, and Rakta Moksha- Bloodletting.
It consists of Emesis (therapeutic cleaning of the upper orifice of the alimentary canal), Purgation
(Removal of waste from lower orifice), Enema (Therapeutic cleaning of the large intestine and
bladder via medicated enema), Nasal application of ayurvedic medicines and Bloodletting. This
treatment works on the principle of removing deep seated toxins from the body causing
imbcfalance and is recommended 3 times a year – at the turn of spring, autumn and winter. A
healthy person is recommended this treatment once a year to rejuvenate and revitalize the body by
bringing into balance various constituents.
HOMEOPATHY
Homeopathy, another system of medicine was discovered by Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843) a
German physician. Homeopathy is derived from the Greek word homio, meaning like, and pathos,
meaning suffering. Homeopathic medicines treat illness by going with, rather than against,
symptoms that are seen as the body's natural defenses. In contrast, "allopathic" or conventional
medicine acts by suppressing the symptoms of illness (Eisenberg D.,1993).
The underlying principle of homeopathy is like may be cured by like. That is, a homeopathic
substance will produce symptoms in a healthy person that may be used to treat a sick person who
has the same symptoms. This principle is used to some degree in conventional therapies, such as
immunizations and allergy treatments.
The second principle of homeopathy is the minimum dose. In testing the properties of various
substances, Hahnemann found that by diluting the substance potentizing it – the remedy worked
more effectively. In fact, the more dilute the substance, the greater became its effect or cure,
without side effects. Hahnemann theorized that the homeopathic substance, even in infinitesimal
amounts, worked by stimulating what he termed the vital life force, a type of energy that he
believed animates all living things.
The third principle of homeopathy is its focus on the patient as a whole. In addition to physical
symptoms, Hahnemann's proving included an extensive listing of the patient's emotional state.
Homeopathic doctors consider the patient's total experience, both mental and physical symptoms
and the individual's emotional state, in searching for the appropriate homeopathic substance. A
homeopathic practitioner often seeks out what may seem like irrelevant information, such as
unusual food cravings, aversion to particular weather conditions, or the time of day that symptoms
appear. Homeopathic medicines, commonly referred to as remedies, may come from the plant,
mineral, or animal kingdom.
Some common remedies include Arnica Montana, from the Leopard's bane plant; belladonna, from
the deadly nightshade plant; calcarea, calcium carbonate from oyster shells; sepia, from
cuttlefish ink; and the element, sulphur. Homeopathic remedies are produced using the dilution
principles. In a common dilution of 1:100, one drop of the homeopathic substance is added to 99
drops of water and/or alcohol. The mixture is then potentized by a process called succession
repeated tapping on a hard surface for a specific length of time. Remedies may be diluted up to
1000 times, leaving only an infinitesimal trace of the substance. Remedies are typically diluted
10,100, or 1,000 times, which translate into potencies that are marked with the Roman numerals
X, C, and M. Homeopathic remedies range from 6X as the lowest potency to 1M or more as the
highest potency.
The dilutions advocated by Hahnemann and those used today often reduce the concentration of the
initial substance to infinitesimal levels. Hahnemann himself understood that dilutions of the
magnitude he used eliminated all of the original substance. He believed, however, that the healing
power of the substance could be preserved and actually concentrated by the process of
dynamization (Cassileth R., 1996)
Homeopaths generally begin with detailed examinations of their patients' histories, including
questions regarding their physical, mental and emotional states, their life circumstances and any
physical or emotional illnesses. The homeopath then attempts to translate this information into a
complex formula of mental and physical symptoms, including likes, dislikes, innate
predispositions and even body type. From these symptoms, the homeopath chooses how to treat
the patient. A compilation of reports of many homeopathic provings, supplemented with clinical
data, is known as a homeopathic materia medica. But because a practitioner first needs to explore
the remedies for a particular symptom rather than looking up the symptoms for a particular remedy,
the homeopathic repertory, which is an index of symptoms, lists after each symptom those
remedies that are associated with it. Repertories are often very extensive and may include data
extracted from multiple sources of materia medica. There is often lively debate among compilers
of repertories and practitioners over the veracity of a particular inclusion (Saber C., 2000)
NATUROPATHY
Naturopathy deals with the healing power of nature since it believes that all healing powers are
within our body. This means that within every human being there is a healing energy, which
includes our immune system in the complete sense of both the physical and the psyche, which is
responsible for our wellness and our ability to heal and maintain health. We fall ill only when we
go against Nature. Naturopathy deals with expelling the cause of diseases (toxins) from the body
to cure it. Fasting is one of the best natural methods in which an ailing body can purify and recoup
itself.
It is a drugless healing process which propagates ways to stay healthy in accordance to the laws of
nature. The origin of Indian Naturopathy can be traced back to the Vedic period. In the Vedic
period dietary discipline (Pathya and Ahara) and the principles of health (Swastha and Vurtha)
described in ayurveda have developed into present day Indian Naturopathy. Even today strictly
vegetarian food is served as part of therapy as per the doctor or dietician's prescription. Use of
Alcohol, smoking, chewing tobacco, and the consumption of tea, coffee, and non-vegetarian foods
are forbidden in this treatment (Barberis L et al, 2001).
There are various naturopathy centers all over India and other countries which require the visitor
(patient) to stay on campus, for a duration that depends upon the nature of his or her complaint.
Some naturopathy centers prescribe a minimum stay of ten days, as they say that no significant
effect can be observed within a shorter period.
Lemon and Naturopathy
For cough, cold and fever, lemon is very effective. Squeeze a lemon in a glass full of water and
drink repeatedly. This will cure all of the three ailments. But if the fever is high and makes one
thirsty, boil the water. This will bring down the fever and reduce the thirst. If the cold is severe, it
can be added to the required amount of honey in the above mixture. Another very beneficial
method is as follows: cut a lemon in half, add in it salt, ground black pepper and powdered
molasses. Heat this and squeeze the juice directly on the tongue. To remove the freckles on the
face, rub a piece of lemon on them and they will lighten considerably. Sprinkling a little alum on
the lemon works wonders for the complexion. Rubbing half a lemon on the teeth not only makes
the teeth shiny and bright but will also cure bad breath. To reduce the body weight add a little salt
and one lemon to 350 ml of lukewarm water and drink daily on an empty stomach. You can also
substitute honey to salt (Mamtani R., 2005).
Milk and Naturopathy
Milk should ideally be consumed in the morning since it is believed that the heat of the sun helps
in digestion of milk. Adding sugar to milk is very harmful since it not only induces phlegm, it also
destroys the calcium content in it. It should be drunk at room temperature if possible. However, if
one prefers warm milk, then do not overheat it. Overheating destroys all its
beneficial elements. For the sweetening of milk and easy digestion, one can add honey to it. If one
is suffering from cough, constipation, diarrhea, stomachache, or indigestion, he/she should avoid
consumption of milk. For acidity, drink cold milk twice a day. For hiccups, it is advised to
warm a glass of milk and drink. In addition, for tiredness, a glass of warm milk will prove effective.
For wrinkles, pimples and blemishes, warm milk can be applied. After half an hour, wash the face
with clean water. One has to do it regularly before sleeping at night; then it will solve the problem
and improve the complexion. Adding a little saffron to a spoonful of fresh milk and applying it on
the lips will cure their darkness and make them softer. If one is suffering from an itchy rash, add a
little water to some milk and apply on the rash with cotton wool and then wash. It will stop the
itch and cure the rash (Urmila T et al, 2008).
Salt and Naturopathy
Salt is good only in small quantities and rock salt is better than sea salt. Eating excessive salt
weakens the gums and is also the cause of body odor. Due to excessive consumption of salt, body
cells die, and when these dead cells come out through the pores with perspiration, the
odor is very strong and foul. To help the situation, one can consume salt in very small quantities.
Salt is very drying; hence, excessive amounts of salt will cause unnatural thirst. But it can be very
beneficial as well. In a headache keep a pinch of salt on the tongue or smell a mixture of
three grams of salt in one-fourth cup of water. For a stomachache, mix half a spoon salt in a glass
of hot water and drink. This will not only cure the pain but will also remove the cause of the pain.
For softening the skin, wet the skin and take a fistful of salt and rub in circular motions and then
wash. It is advised to do it once a week and it will slough off dead skin, thus making it soft. For
cracking heels or rough feet, soak the feet in warm water by adding some salt to it.
Soil and Naturopathy
Mud is one of five elements of nature having immense impact on the body in health as well as in
sickness. It can be employed conveniently as a therapeutic agent in Naturopathy treatment as its
black color absorbs all the colors of the sun and conveys them to the body. Secondly, as the mud
retains moisture for a long time, when applied over the body part it causes cooling. Thirdly, its
shape and consistency can be changed easily by adding water. Moreover, it is cheap and easily
available. Mud procured for treatment purpose should be black cotton soil with greasiness and free
from pollution and contamination. Before use mud should be dried, powdered and sieved to
separate stones, grass particles and other impurities. Today however, naturopathy is very different
in its approach. Our soil and air have been denatured by modern technology and war, the
processing of food has devitalitised the raw materials given to us by nature and chemicals added
to our food are often very harmful. Naturopathy has had to evolve to deal with this artificial
environment that we have created; so the birth of supplements and nutritional products to
supplement our diets and to cleanse us from the chemicals in our soil, Water and air has become
essential (Chakraborti D et al, 2003)
ACUPRESSURE
Chinese medicine has developed acupuncture, acupressure, herbal remedies, diet, exercise,
lifestyle , and other remedies as part of its healing methods. Nearly all of the forms of Oriental
medicine that are used in the West today, including acupuncture, acupressure, shiatsu, and Chinese
herbal medicine, have their roots in Chinese medicine. Acupressure is the noninvasive form of
acupuncture. The goal with Acupressure is to learn the points that will produce the Healing
Response for the conditions we want to fix (Barberis L et al, 2001).
Meridian is a word borrowed from geography indicating a thin line joining a series of ordered
points. There are 12 main meridians, one assigned to each of the five organs, the six bowels, and
the pericardium or heart constrictor. Qi flows through channels located near the surface of the
body. Another name for channels is meridians, or meridian points. There are 12 channels linked
to specific organs, such as the liver, heart, and kidneys. Acupoints or pressure points are located
on the channels. When precise pressure is exerted onto an acupoint, the gate is opened and flows
through. In our modern lifestyle lack of sufficient muscular activities gives rise to various physical
problems. Unbalanced food and abuse of natural routine of the body add to the problems.
Acupressure has beneficial effects in curing many diseases. These diseases may include metabolic
disorders, body deformity, inflammation of body tissues, digestion related problems, and heart
related problems and problems with nervous system, to name a few.
The acupuncture technique that has been most studied scientifically involves penetrating the skin
with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation.
The needles are extremely fine, about the size of a thick hair. The needles are solid and nothing is
injected through them. Over the centuries, very refined needle insertion techniques have been
developed which enable the skilled acupuncture practitioner to place a needle with little or no
sensation. In some cases, the needles are not used. This may occur during the treatment of sensitive
adults or children. The use of electronic stimulation works with equal effectiveness as the needle.
Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the immune system. It also has affects the
circulation, blood pressure, rhythm and stroke volume of the heart, secretion of the gastric acid
and production of red and white cells. It stimulates the release of a variety of hormones that help
body to respond to injury and stress. This traditional Chinese medicine technique uses thin needles
to stimulate various points around the body. Each point corresponds to a specific condition. The
aim of acupuncture is to restore a balance of energy and good health to the body.
More study needs to be done into the benefits of acupuncture. However, evidence suggests that
acupuncture holds promise for relieving vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy. It also may
help ease some chronic pain conditions, including headache, low back pain, osteoarthritis of the
knee, body Aches and Pains, Sinus Problems, Chronic Fatigue & Insomnia, Joint Pain and Sport
Injuries, Back and Neck Pain/Stiffness, Stress and Anxiety Related Disorders, Digestive Disorders
(Acidity, Constipation, Gas, Bloating), Acute and chronic pain relief, Migraine, Tension, cluster
and sinus headaches, Trigeminal neuralgia, Bladder dysfunction, Bed wetting, Cervical (neck)
pain, Mid-back pain, Low back pain, Shoulder pain, Tennis elbow, Post-operative pain relief,
Gastric problems, Asthma, Allergies, Skin conditions, Hemorrhoids, Abnormal blood pressure,
Chronic fatigue syndrome, Anxiety and Neurological syndromes (Azeemi Y et al, 2003)
HYDROTHERAPY
Hydrotherapy, formerly called hydropathy involves the use of water for pain-relief and treating
illness. The term hydrotherapy itself is synonymous with the term Water cure as it was originally
marketed by practitioners and promoters in the 1800s. According to the International SPA
Association (ISPA), hydrotherapy has long been a staple in European spas. It's the generic term
for water therapies using jets, underwater massage and mineral baths and others. It also can mean
a whirlpool bath, hot Roman pool, hot tub, Jacuzzi, cold plunge and mineral bath. These treatments
use physical water properties, such as temperature and pressure, for therapeutic purposes, to
stimulate blood circulation and treat the symptoms of certain diseases ( Van G, 2003)
CHROMOTHERAPY
Chromotherapy, sometimes called color therapy colorology or cromatherapy, is an alternative
medicine method. It is claimed that a therapist trained in chromotherapy can use color and light to
balance energy wherever a person's body be lacking, be it physical, emotional, spiritual, or mental.
Avicenna (980-1037), who viewed color to be of vital importance in diagnosis and
treatment, discussed chromotherapy in The Canon of Medicine. He wrote that "Color is an
observable symptom of disease" and also developed a chart that related color to the temperature
and physical condition of the body. His view was that red moved the blood, blue or white cooled
it, and yellow reduced muscular pain and inflammation. He further discussed the properties of
colors for healing and was the first to establish that the wrong color suggested for therapy would
elicit no response in specific diseases. As an example he observed that a person with a nosebleed
should not gaze at things of a brilliant red color should not be exposed to red light because this
would stimulate the sanguineous humor, whereas blue wouldsoothe it and reduce blood flow.
In the 19th century, healers claimed colored glass filters could treat many diseases including
constipation and meningitis. Photobiology, the term for the contemporary scientific study of the
effects of light on humans, has replaced the term chromotherapy in an effort to separate it from its
roots in Victorian mysticism and to strip it of its associations with symbolism and magic. Light
therapy is a specific treatment approach using high intensity light to treat specific sleep, skin and
mood disorders. Ayurvedic medicine describes the body as having seven main chakras, which are
spiritual centers located along the spine that are associated with a color, function and organ or
bodily system. According to this explanation, these colors can become imbalanced and result in
physical diseases but these imbalances can be corrected through using the appropriate color as a
treatment.
CHIROPRACTIC MEDICINE
Chiropractors specialize in adjustments manipulating the spine to put the body into better
alignment. People typically visit the chiropractor when they have pain in their lower back,
shoulders, and neck. But many chiropractors claim adjustments can also improve overall health.
Chiropractic medicine does seem to provide some relief for lower back pain. But it may not be
any better than other back pain treatments (Urse V, 1937). Studies have also found the technique
effective for migraine and neck-related headaches, neck pains, joint conditions, whitesplash and
so on. But there isn't much data on the effectiveness of chiropractic medicine for some general
medical conditions. For example, there's no solid evidence that it can treat asthma, high blood
pressure, menstrual pain, or fibromyalgia.
BACH FLOWER THERAPY
The Bach Flower therapy (pronounced as ‘Batch’) is an innovative healing modality, discovered
by Dr. Edward Bach between 1930-1936. It is not intended to treat, diagnose or cure any illness
or disease as on the lines of modern medical science, rather it offers a simple system of eliminating
behavioral negativities by taking into account your overall nature, personality traits and attitude
towards life -irrespective of your disease or ill health condition. Reigning behavioral negativities
like frustration, guilty feeling or jealousy-- which accumulate at the core of our psyche over a
duration of time as in the form of negative emotions and incessantly make us
emotionally imbalanced, are considered to be the root cause of all our sufferings (Van G et al,
2003).
According to Bach Flower Therapy, often any ailment or ill-health condition at most of the time
and in majority of the cases is the result or expression of persistent "emotional imbalance" that
takes place at the core of your psyche and persists over a period of time due to gradual
accumulation of numerous Negative Emotions, those originates either from your mind itself or
from your surrounding circumstances. As soon as your mental state improves, the physical trouble
disappears. Therefore a person who implies his overall nature, his general attitude
towards life and his inimitable surrounding circumstances is more important than his disease or ill
health condition. Our mental make-up and overall attitude towards life are equally important as
your symptoms of diseases or illness. Although invisible through naked eyes, our behavioral
negativities OR emotional imbalances are real and we can perceive their effects on our lives in the
form of pains or pleasures associated with them. It's not that person's fault if he or she is
emotionally imbalanced. Their innate nature and existing hostile circumstances are equally
responsible. Emotional imbalance is not a sign of weakness. "Emotional imbalance" at times is
natural. For most of the people, it is the fear, shame, and embarrassment that often prevent them
from seeking help for their emotional imbalances. Most of the people get surprised to learn that
other family members had dealt either one or more times in their life with the same problem that
they are facing right in present day.
ENERGY THERAPIES
Energy therapies use magnets and therapeutic touch to manipulate the body's energy fields and
improve health. Energy therapy is the gentle art of clearing cellular memory through the human
energy field promoting health, balance and relaxation. Energy therapy is based on the concept of
connection between thephysical, emotional, mental and spiritual realms of our lives found in many
holistic healing methods. It uses focused healing energy to clear blocks that accumulate in the body
hindering the natural flow of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual energy. This healing focus
promotes personal empowerment, self-healing and spiritual growth (Urse V, 1937).
For many people, feelings of being overwhelmed, anxious, and tired become a way of life. Living
this way can lead to health problems such as headache, digestive disorders, back and neck pain
tension, and sleeplessness, among others. Additionally, situations such as conflict in relationships,
both personal and professional, being unproductive and unhappy at work, can easily and
consistently develop. These types of issues, which originate from physical, emotional, and mental
stress often involve an unhealthy complex relationship between mind and body, are ideally suited
for treatment with energy based bodywork and therapy. Energy therapy acknowledges that
negative life experiences create emotions such as anger, fear, stress, resentment, guilt and sadness
and that these emotions become trapped in specific areas of the physical body. Trapped emotions,
often called energy blocks, create physical, emotional and mental disharmony.
During an energy session, suppressed emotions are released without the client having to remember
the actual stressful event that caused the energy block. It is a safe, gentle, supportive method that
can be used to release negative patterns of the past and help to empower and bring balance to your
life. It is an extremely effective healing modality that releases stress, feelings of being
overwhelmed, and negative emotions. It releases tension and everyday stress that makes you feel
tired, burned out, and overwhelmed. It creates a renewed sense of vitality. It supports healing on
all levels physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. It brings balance to your life, allowing you to
enjoy a clear sense of purpose and direction. It finally leaves you with a deeply relaxed and calm
state of being.
REIKI
The premise of Reiki is that it accesses the body's natural energy to speed healing. The practitioner
hovers his or her hands over the patient's body. Or he or she places them lightly on the person's
skin (Azeemi Y et al, 2003). There is something to be said for the healing touch when it comes to
bringing about a state of calm. One study checked the effect of Reiki on people
hospitalized with heart disease. It showed that Reiki was effective in bringing about an increase in
happiness, relaxation and feeling of calm.
FAITH HEALING
Faith healing is the practice of prayer and gestures (such as laying on of hands) that are believed
by some to elicit divine intervention in spiritual and physical healing, especially the Christian
practice(Smith et al, 1995). Christian physician Reginald B. Cherry views faith healing as a
pathway of healing in which God uses both the natural and the supernatural to heal (Cherry et al,
1999). Believers assert that the healing of disease and disability can be brought about by religious
faith through prayer or other rituals that, according to adherents, can stimulate a divine presence
and power. Religious belief in divine intervention does not depend on empirical evidence of an
evidence-based outcome achieved via faith healing(Village et al, 2005). Virtually all scientists and
philosophers dismiss faith healing as pseudoscience(Manner et al, 2013).
Claims that "a myriad of techniques" such as prayer, divine intervention, or the ministrations of an
individual healer can cure illness have been popular throughout history(Barrett et al, 2009). There
have been claims that faith can cure blindness, deafness, cancer, HIV/AIDS, developmental
disorders, anemia, arthritis, corns, defective speech, multiple sclerosis, skin rashes, total body
paralysis, and various injuries. Recoveries have been attributed to many techniques commonly
classified as faith healing. It can involve prayer, a visit to a religious shrine, or simply a strong
belief in a supreme being (American Cancer Society, 2013).
Many people interpret the Bible, especially the New Testament, as teaching belief in, and the
practice of, faith healing. According to a 2004 Newsweek poll, 72 percent of Americans said they
believe that praying to God can cure someone, even if science says the person has an incurable
disease(Kalb et al, 2003). Unlike faith healing, advocates of spiritual healing make no attempt to
seek divine intervention, instead believing in divine energy. The increased interest in alternative
medicine at the end of the 20th century has given rise to a parallel interest among sociologists in
the relationship of religion to health(Village et al, 2005).
Faith healing can be classified as a spiritual, supernatural, (Walker et al, 1995) or paranormal
topic,(Martin M, 1994) and, in some cases, belief in faith healing can be classified as magical
thinking(Lesser R et al, 1985). The American Cancer Society states "available scientific evidence
does not support claims that faith healing can actually cure physical ailments. Death, disability,
and other unwanted outcomes have occurred when faith healing was elected instead of medical
care for serious injuries or illnesses". "When parents have practiced faith healing rather than
medical care, many children have died that otherwise would have been expected to live(Asser et
al, 1998). Similar results are found in adults(Simpson 1989). However, A 2011 article in the New
Scientist magazine cited positive physical results from meditation, positive thinking and spiritual
faith(Jo, 2011).
PICTURES
CHAPTER FOUR
LIMITATIONS OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
The natural product single entity approach or New Drug Entity (NDE) of ‘white crystalline
powder’ is a drug discovery model that has placed the traditional medicines’ development in
Nigeria at a disadvantage for a variety of reasons (Orgah, 2008). One of these reasons is proof
requirement. The empirical data for Natural products drug discovery in Nigeria is from Traditional
Medicine. However, the main obstacle to the use of traditional medicines is the proof requirement
that the active components contained in medicinal plants are useful, safe and effective. This is
highly required to assure the medical professions and the public regarding the use of traditional
medicines as drug alternatives. Unfortunately, we either are not able to conduct needed research
that will provide scientific proof of pharmacology or lack the technological, economic, legislative
or institutional framework for research and training activities in Natural products drug discovery.
As a result, the quantity and quality of safety and efficacy data are far from sufficient to meet the
gold standard for the use of herbal medicines.
Another reason is differing healing principles between traditional medicine and orthodox
medicines. Traditional Nigerian Medicine operates on a deep seated holistic health philosophy of
disease prevention rather than cure. Traditional Nigerian Medicine approaches healthcare through
a variety of techniques and methods that are broadly based on the use of herbs/health foods, which
are exploited as nutraceuticals, adaptogens or immune system stimulators/boosters. While
pharmaceuticals are generally based on a single active ingredient, traditional therapies are based
on the philosophy that herbal medicines affect the system via a synergistic combination of effects
of the natural products in the herbs. In some cases traditional medicine therapies may not contain
any ingredient effective against the disease by its direct causative pathological pathway but could
be wholly directed at the reinforcement of organs and tissues to resist the disease. This fundamental
approach to health by the Nigerian healer makes his system of cure unique and crying for evidence.
Another reason is inadequate research structures. Although research in chemistry and bioactive
components of herbal traditional medicines has been ongoing in the country, a systematic and
concerted approach to this activity cannot be sustained for want of sophisticated equipment and
high-cost chemicals. Much of our research has been academic in nature and directed at professional
elevation. Determining and standardizing, the level of ingredients in nutraceutical and adaptogenic
herbal medicines, requires a sophisticated ability in analytic chemistry. Not many laboratories in
Nigeria can do this, and in the private sector there aren’t facilities, which can perform these tasks
either. Many R&D institutions and Universities in the country do not have pilot process facilities
and are therefore unable to pass on their R & D findings to the industry. Since little or no pilot
plants exist, it is not possible to establish the process technology required for upgrading the
research
findings
to
industrial
scales.
It is heart-warming to note though that these challenges are not peculiar to Nigeria alone but a
global and topical challenge which has enunciated international response by the health research
community. Such responses have evolved new research models for acquiring the evidence bases
for use of these medicines and their subsequent translation to clinical practice.
FUTURE OF ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE IN NIGERIA
Herbal medicines have found rebirth in the healing sphere (Ameh et al., 2012; WHO, 2013), owing
to public demand and based on successful psychometric evaluations using various rigorous study
designs of Randomised Controlled Trials (RCT). Globally, clinical researchers have taken up the
challenge of providing clinical evidence for use. This is evidenced by the growing volume of herbal
remedy clinical research conducted in the UK, US, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada (Bubela
et al., 2008).
They also who noted also that clinical trials of herbal remedies were more negatively reported by
newspapers than clinical trials for pharmaceuticals and indicated that media coverage fails to
provide “the public with the information necessary to make informed decisions about medical
treatments.” They further suggested that this negatively impacts the medical research community.
Noting the peculiarity of herbal medicines and the needed interdisciplinary structure of its evidence
research (Wang, et al., 2011), clinical researchers have developed various novel approaches (Jia
et al., 2013) to effectively translate this classic cultural medicine into a global clinical practice with
measurable safety, quality and efficacy despite negative report.
The evidence climate of herbal medicine and other complementary and alternative medicine have
thus changed since the last decade when Frenkel and Borkan (2003), reported that “Despite all the
demand and interest in CAM, there remains a distinct lack of evidence regarding efficacy”. In
Nigeria’s peculiar situation, due to the rising cost of medicines and the poor performance of
existing medical approaches in the face of new health challenges, Nigerians are compelled to look
inward and revisit our traditional knowledge in medicines, science and technology especially our
indigenous herbal medicines and manual manipulations such as massage therapy, bone setting and
phyto-medicines even in the face of technological difficulties. Meanwhile, clinical practice in the
21st century has become an active research science exploiting the laboratory and field data
generated by biomedical scientist to provide the needed translational evidence basis for the
utilisation
of
medicines,
medical
devices
and
other
healing
strategies.
Translational medicine is a research dissemination tool for advancing gains of medical research to
populations through clinical research. It is an integrative socio-political, clinical and basic science
for improved and efficient outcomes in patient care. It is currently considered globally as a very
useful tool for evidence based practice of conventional medicines. This paradigm is also an
emerging trend in the development and practice of traditional medicines generally and herbal
medicines in particular as evidenced by various works (Graz, et al., 2007; Zhang et al., 2012; Xu
et
al.,
2013;
Singh
et
al.,2014).
A critical observation of the Sino-American symposium held in 2012 (Qian, et al., 2012), on
clinical and translational medicine was that translational medicine was an emerging and growing
field working for improved and efficient outcomes in patient care. Translational medicine research
is also an emerging trend in Traditional Medicine (Qian, et al., 2012). According to Frenkel and
Borkan, (2003), the need to establish a method for integrating therapies of Complementary and
Alternative Medicine (CAM) with orthodox medicine practice is sacrosanct. Therefore, Integrative
Medicine, the combination of orthodox medicine and traditional medicine therapies with proven
evidence of safety and efficacy is proposed as a useful clinical strategy. Researchers have reported
that Integrative Medicine is attracting an increase of attention among clinical researchers, Verhoef,
et al. (2006).
Although a large gap exists between traditional medicine knowledge and its translation to clinical
practice (Brownson et al. 2006), the growing evidence arising from Nigerian herbal medicines
cannot be ignored and the nation behoves it on biomedical scientists to carry out the necessary
research and generate the needed evidence bases to integrate our herbal medicines into mainstream
healthcare,
make them solutions to global health challenges and develop new biological products as resource
for income and wealth generation. In this era of evidence-based medicine coupled with advances
in clinical research targeted at the improvement of clinical practice in the care of patients,
systematic application of translational research remains a burning global issue in both conventional
and herbal medicine practices. There is the growing global demand for quality care and a greater
interest by patients in personal health issues as evidenced in Australia, UK and USA (Shergis et
al., 2013).
Clinics, clinicians and clinical researchers are thus faced with the challenges of acquiring the
needed evidence for use of herbal medicines and other traditional medicine practices, (Ernst, et
al., 2004). The core focus in this regard according to Sun, et al., (2011), would be the reverse
pharmacology principle of taking clinical data from bedside to laboratory and back to the bedside.
This concept of reverse pharmacology is needed in other to acquire the necessary clinical evidence
to convince clinicians to prescribe herbal medicines to patients. Willcox et al., (2011) used this
approach and successfully developed an anti-malarial phytomedicine in Mali. The evolution of
this approach is therefore a necessity in other to move herbal medicines from the crossroad. Herbal
medicine researchers and herbal clinics must therefore strive to achieve research structures that
allows
for
data
inflow
from
the
clinic
and
pharmacovigilance
outlets.
Also, herbal clinics must establish avenues for deliberate clinical research on its herbal medicines
through the design of study protocols that meet global gold standards in Clinical research. Graz,
et al.,(2007), proposes low cost strategies for carrying out such studies such as “the retrospective
treatment– outcome population survey, the prognosis – outcome method …, and the dose –
escalating prospective study.” The goal of such an effort would be to acquire the needed evidence
for integrating herbal therapies of proven safety and efficacy into mainstream healthcare and
clinical practice. The necessity for adopting a reverse pharmacology approach stems from the
unique nature of translational research of herbal medicines as against orthodox medicines.
Translation in orthodox practice is fairly straightforward as it attempts to acquire data to transform
biomedical research into clinical practice.
The critical challenge of translation in herbal medicines lies in the fact that the practice have to be
scientifically re-evaluated and revalidated to establish actual efficacy and safety (Zhang et al.,
2012). Translational herbal medicine strives to translate current knowledge into clinical practice
and render the practice repeatedly generalizable as a modern medical practice and this
improvement of quality, standardization of treatment protocols and technology based
modernisation, (Zhang, et al., 2012). It is noteworthy that herbal medicines, if appropriately
translated into clinical practice would aid the nation in achieving the millennium development
goals.
CHAPTER FIVE
A PRACTICAL ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE CLINIC IN NIGERIA
The safety of alternative medicine in Nigeria is best realized to a reasonable extent when we
integrate it into the conventional medical profession. The current limitations surrounding it especially the fact that we do not currently have enough scientific data and proofs to explain the
pathophysiology of how they operates, are enough reasons why to a large extent, it's not advisable
for the clinic (of alternative medicine) to stand alone. It could breed potential long-term effects
that may not be easily predicted especially when it has delivered results. And of course, the
scientific world can no longer shut their eyes or blind their ears to the fact that alternative medicine
delivers results even in the absence of scientific explanations. If alternative medicine has not been
delivering results over the years, many people would have stopped seeking it. Most people are not
that gullible as many scientists think. When things doesn't deliver anticipated result, they stop
seeking it. Even many literates would rather opt for alternative medicine rather than conventional
medicine. The late Sir Tai Solarin is a great example in this regard.
When we integrate alternative medicine into conventional medicine, we would be developing both
holistic and comprehensive approaches to the art of medicine. Integrative medicine, as defined by
the American Board of Integrative Medicine (ABOIM) and the Consortium of Academic Health
Centers for Integrative Medicine, is the practice of medicine that reaffirms the importance of the
relationship between practitioner and patient, focuses on the whole person, is informed by
evidence, and makes use of all appropriate therapeutic approaches, healthcare professionals, and
disciplines to achieve optimal health and healing. In short, the future and beauty of alternative
medicine would look glamorous if medical doctors are further trained in one form of alternative
medicine or the other.
A rheumatologist who has battled with a patient with osteoarthritis for years but with little or no
result, can take chance with alternative medicine before sending the patient over for surgery. It
won't kill to try acupuncture with the patient's consent. However, that is if he has further been
trained in acupuncture. And if he has, then he will be doing the patient a big favour. This is because
as a medical doctor, he would know the extent and limit to which he can go. He would be able to
pick some signs to know if his patient is getting better or not. He is better qualified than an ordinary
acupuncturist as to know when to call it quit on its patient. He would know when it's best to
substantiate his treatment with pharmacotherapy. Moreso, he knows some medical investigations
he can order to monitor improvement even when it is subtle.
A medical doctor who is also trained in the art of faith healing won't be loading his patient with
sumatriptan every day because of migraine. The moment you make your pharmacotherapy a daily
food for your patient, especially over a long time, many of them would start to rebel. Before you
know it, their conditions start getting worse. And for some, you would just find yourselves
increasing their daily dosages every now and then. If you don't even order this increase, many
would automatically assume their own physicians. They would start increasing it themselves. If
you frown too much against them, some of them won't come to your clinic again. They would tell
you it's their body, not your body.
However, because you are well versed in faith healing, you can diversify your treatments. You can
pray with your patient to really know if there are some spiritual hangings that has been limiting
the effect of your pharmacotherapy. Even prayer itself is therapeutic! What if the patient has been
suffering from chronic stress from her marriage? Little wonder it's looking as if your sumatriptan
is no longer doing the magic you want. By the time you sit the patient down for some
psychotherapy sessions, or you speak to her husband on several occasions, you will notice drastic
improvements. You may just need to teach some meditative skills to her. Before you know it, you
are gradually tailing down your sumatriptans until she won't need it anymore. This is because you
have fortified the patient's spirit, soul and body enough to be able to prevent migraine. And if it
shows up, they can take care of it on their own. Such patients would now need to come to your
clinic once in six month or a year for check-up.
If as a medical doctor, you have also been trained in the art of herbal medicine, you will effectively
be able to guide your patients in their use of herbal medicine. Please, let's for once be frank with
ourselves, your patients are taking one form of herbal concoction or the other despite all your
warnings. This is Nigeria! Some will even lie it to your face that they are not taking it, whereas
they are. This is because some of them are ignorant, stubborn or more knowledgeable than you are
in herbal medicine. But by the time your patient discovers that you are also well versed in herbal
medicine, they would religiously listen to your instructions and heed your warnings. They would
easily gain your trust. With that, you will effectively be able to monitor the effectiveness of your
pharmacotherapy to your patient, having now fully known that there would be no interference from
any herbs the patient was concomitantly using. Before long, you will have a better doctor-patient
relationship, which is therapeutic on its own. This is the placebo principle that many great doctors
have used over the years, because their patients trust them.
In conclusion, the practicability of alternative medicine in Nigeria is realized when we integrate it
into conventional medical practice. It will foster a holistic healing in hospitals here in Nigeria..
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PAST AND PRESENT OF HERBAL MEDICINE IN NIGERIA
Traditional medicine had in the past been seen as a fetish way of curing diseases. It is believed that
poor and illiterate individuals are the patronisers of traditional medicine. This thought is buttressed
by the point that most of its practioners were regarded as witch doctors who took care of their
patient with occultic powers. Practioners of traditional medicine were not in any way seen as
doctors; even the western trained doctors saw them as a threat to the well being of their patient. It
should be however be noted that before now, quacks bedevilled the Nigerian traditional medicine
practice. This was largely due to lack of necessary legislations to control and regulate the practice.
But regulation of herbal medicines was introduced in Nigeria in 1993 in Decree No.15 and was
revised in 1999. Under this decree herbal medicines are regulated as dietary supplements, health
foods, functional foods and as an independent regulatory category (Falodun et al, 2013).
As reported in the WHO global survey on National policy on traditional medicine and
regulation of herbal medicines, May 2005, Nigeria, the expert committee on TM/CAM
was created in 1978. The work of this committee led to the creation of two national research
institutes on TM/CAM and herbal medicines, founded in 1988 and 1992. They are the Nigeria
Natural Medicines Development Agency in Lagos, Nigeria and the National Institute for
Pharmaceutical Research and Development. In recent years, the treatments and remedies used in
traditional African medicine vis- a-vis Nigeria have gained more appreciation from researchers in
Western science. Developing countries have begun to realize the high costs of modern health care
systems and the technologies that are required, thus proving Africa's dependence to it
(Helwig, 2010).
Due to this, interest has recently been expressed in integrating traditional African medicine into
the continent's national health care systems. Today, in some Asian and African countries, up to 80
% of the population relies on traditional medicine or practices for their primary health care needs
(WHO. Fact Sheet, Traditional Medicine, Geneva, May 2003.).
In Nigeria, it’s no exception the Nigerian people and even the government equally are aware of
the role and need for an alternative means of health care for the people. This awareness gave birth
to the establishment of the “Nigerian Natural Medicine Development Agency” (NNMDA). Herbal
medicine/traditional medicine practice in Nigeria permeates every tribe. In a research involving
Eighty nine species, plants belonging to forty six families were identified from fifty respondents,
with herbal recipes recorded for thirty five ailments or therapeutic indications/uses. Individual
plant species with highest frequency of prescription include Nauclea latifolia and Pilliostigma
thonningii, Ageratum conyzoides, Newlboldia laevis, Phyllanthus muererianus Cochlospermum
planchonii, Ocimum gratissimum and Parkia biglobosa. This research indicates that for the Igede
people in Benue state traditional medicine have wide acceptability and a long history (Igoli et al.,
2005).