Practice and Perception of Traditional Medicine Practitioners towards Challenges Facing Traditional Medicine Practice in Nigeria: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Aim: This study explores and documents obstacles faced by Traditional Medicine Practitioners (TMPs) in Nigeria. Traditional Medicine (TM) plays a vital role in the healthcare systems of low- and middle-income countries, yet it encounters numerous challenges. Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in Nigeria by the Department of Medicinal Plant Research and Traditional Medicine, National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Idu – Abuja, Nigeria between December 2021 and January 2022. Methodology: A survey was conducted among Nigerian TMPs using a semi-structured questionnaire to gain insights into their challenges and potential solutions. TMPs were recruited nationwide using purposive and convenient sampling, and descriptive statistics were used to present data gathered. Results: The majority of TMP respondents (67%) were male, with 48% holding graduate degrees and 11% having doctorates. Regarding practice, 87% of TMPs maintain patient records, and 88% keep medicinal recipe records. Most TMPs (81%) engage in general practice alongside other forms. Collaboration willingness was expressed by 89% towards fellow practitioners, 95% towards research institutes, and 89% towards individual researchers. Challenges identified by TMPs include a lack of cooperation from orthodox doctors (25%), absence of standardized products (19%), inadequate policies (19%), and disorganization among TMPs (15%). Product registration revealed that 81% of TMPs had unregistered products, with 49% citing high registration costs and 21% lacking knowledge about the process. Specific challenges mentioned were insufficient financial resources (48%) and a need for training (30%). Conclusion: It is crucial for stakeholders to collaborate and review policies to address the highlighted challenges and gaps as found in this study.