By Adeboye Ado

|

There is a growing shift from hospital treatment, where modern drugs are prescribed, to traditional medicines due to high costs and concerns over drug quality.

Weekend Hope reports that some residents expressed  preference for herbal remedies over medical treatments, citing affordability and effectiveness.

A civil servant, Mr. Olaniyi Timothy, said he embraced traditional medicine because of the rising cost of hospital bills and the prevalence of fake drugs.

“The cost of drugs has become very high, making it difficult for many to afford proper treatment. Hospitals now charge as much as N25,000 to treat malaria and typhoid, while herbal medicines cost around N3,000 and provide quick relief,” he said.

He also raised concerns over fake drugs, which, according to him, leave many patients untreated.

Similarly, a trader, Mrs Bosede Arowolo, described traditional medicine as highly effective, noting that many people turn to herbal treatments even after receiving hospital care.

She said: “Hospitals these days are all about money. They prescribe drugs and send patients home, without proper follow-up.”

Arowolo also pointed out that many over-the-counter drugs are fake, whereas local herbs work effectively.

However, Mr. Emmanuel Ogedengbe disagreed, warning that many herbal medicines are prepared under unhygienic conditions and lack proper testing.

“Before taking any medicine, it is important to diagnose the actual problem. Relying on herbs without knowing what is wrong can worsen the illness,” he said.

A pharmacist, who preferred anonymity, highlighted the dangers of unregulated herbal medicines, stating that some mixtures worsen health conditions rather than cure them.

He acknowledged that hospital bills are high, but emphasised that government intervention is needed to make healthcare more affordable, reducing reliance on potentially harmful herbal treatments.

“Many people avoid hospitals due to high costs, but the government must step in to make healthcare accessible,” he added.