EVOLUTION OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AND COMPARATIVE UTILIZATION AMONG CROSS RIVER STATE RURAL AND URBAN RESIDENTS IN NIGERIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64415/jsri.v1i1.58Keywords:
Traditional Medicine, Comparative Utilization, Rural Residents, Urban Residents, NigeriaAbstract
Traditional medicine continues to play an important role in health care delivery across Nigeria, particularly in rural communities where access to modern medical services remains limited. This study examined the comparative utilization of traditional medicine among rural and urban residents of Cross River State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study investigated the level of patronage of traditional medicine, the factors influencing its use, the most commonly utilized forms of treatment, and the proportion of users who experienced side effects. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was adopted. Data were collected from respondents through structured questionnaires covering socio-demographic characteristics, patterns of utilization of traditional and orthodox medicine, factors influencing usage, and experiences with side effects. Findings revealed that traditional medicine remains highly utilized among residents of Cross River State, with many respondents combining traditional remedies with orthodox drugs. Factors such as affordability, accessibility, cultural beliefs, perceived effectiveness, satisfaction with treatment outcomes, and poor access to modern health facilities contributed significantly to the continued use of traditional medicine. The study also found that malaria, body pains, stomach disorders, and cough were among the major ailments for which traditional remedies were frequently used. Although most users reported no serious adverse effects, the simultaneous use of herbal and orthodox medicines raises concerns regarding possible drug interactions and health complications. The study therefore recommends stronger government regulation, improved training for traditional healers, public enlightenment on safe herbal practices, and improved access to affordable orthodox health services.
Keywords: Traditional Medicine, Comparative Utilization, Rural Residents, Urban Residents, Nigeria.
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