Title: Toxicological Concerns In Traditional Medicine In Nigeria
Authors: Ahmed Attahiru Abubakar Umar Birnin-Yauri and Bashar Attahiru
Volume: 9
Issue: 8
Pages: 106-110
Publication Date: 2025/08/28
Abstract:
Traditional medicine continues to play a significant role in healthcare delivery across Nigeria, deeply embedded in cultural beliefs and widely utilized due to its accessibility, affordability, and perceived effectiveness. However, alongside its growing popularity are increasing concerns about the safety, toxicity, and overall public health implications associated with some traditional remedies. This review explores the toxicological risks linked to the use of traditional medicines in Nigeria, with emphasis on the major contaminants and hazards that threaten consumer safety. Key issues discussed include heavy metal contamination such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium known to accumulate in herbal preparations due to environmental pollution or poor processing practices. Other concerns include organ specific toxicity, particularly hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, which may arise from prolonged or unregulated use of certain plant extracts. The potential for carcinogenic effects, microbial contamination from poor hygiene, and unsafe preparation methods are also highlighted. Furthermore, this paper examines the regulatory landscape, revealing significant gaps in policy implementation, quality control measures, and post-market surveillance. Recommendations are offered to enhance the safety of traditional medicinal products, such as stricter enforcement of existing regulations, standardization of herbal formulations, improved public awareness, and integration of toxicological screening in herbal drug evaluation. Strengthening these areas is critical for ensuring safe, effective, and reliable traditional medicine practices in Nigeria.