For centuries, herbal medicine has been used in many cultures to treat different ailments. However, in today’s world, more people seem to turn to orthodox medicine, relying on hospitals, pharmacies and scientifically tested drugs. While some believe herbal remedies are natural, safe and affordable, others see orthodox medicine as more reliable because of modern research, quick results and professional supervision.Weekend Hope speaks with some individuals on why people prefer orthodox medicine to herbal medicine
By Vivian Deladem, Adetunji -ojo Adedolapo, Damisola Akindojutimi, Olamide Iwala, Ireti lawal
Olamilekan Agbeti
Personally, I would say that the choice between orthodox medicine and herbal remedies depends on individual preferences, health needs, and cultural beliefs. Some people may prefer the holistic approach of herbal medicine, while others may prioritise the scientific evidence and standardisation of orthodox medicine, due to factors such as unpredictable potency, lack of regulation, and possible interactions or side effects. Herbal remedies can have unpredictable potency and quality, which may lead to inconsistent results. The herbal medicine industry is often less regulated, raising concerns about safety and efficacy. Additionally, herbal remedies can interact with orthodox medications or even have side effects, especially if not used properly
Habitat Adeleye
The following are the reasons why I personally prefer orthodox medicine to herbs. Orthodox medicine is often standardised, with precise dosages and quality-control measures in place. It is typically backed by scientific research and clinical trials, providing evidence of its effectiveness. Hospitals and clinics are widely available, making orthodox medicine more accessible to many people. It is often better equipped to handle emergency situations, such as severe injuries or acute illnesses. Additionally, orthodox medicine is regulated by government agencies, providing a level of accountability and safety.
Olamiposi Oluwadunsin
Personally, I don’t prefer orthodox medicine to herbs, but I think when you’re financially stable to some extent, you wouldn’t want to risk your life taking herbs. Herbs don’t have measured dosages as orthodox medicine does.
The majority settle for herbs because they are less expensive and heal faster. As for teenagers, they have limited choice and have to follow what their parents give them. For the youth, let me just say we are now more enlightened; education has reduced the level of ignorance, in the sense that taking orthodox medicine is healthier because it has already been properly processed.
Adewale Joy
I feel like it’s because they believe orthodox medicine is properly processed with verifiable materials. That is, it is usually tested before it can be considered effective for a particular ailment. I also feel people prefer it more because it comes with directions on the accurate dosage to be used.
Odanye Favour Tolulope
I think people prefer orthodox medicine because of our upbringing, especially since colonial times. Western medicine was introduced as the proper way, and over time, people began to trust hospitals more than traditional herbs.
Also, with the way the world is now, life is fast and people are less patient. People just want to go to the pharmacy, describe their symptoms, get prescriptions, and buy something quickly. Nobody has the time to start boiling leaves or wait for a herbal mixture to take effect.
Another factor is the way people perceive herbs. There is a stigma attached to them, with the common conception that they are tied to juju or witchcraft. Even if people use herbs, they often won’t admit it openly.
Religion also plays a big role. Many churches and mosques preach against herbs, saying they are not godly. As a result, a lot of people stick to drugs from the hospital to feel safe, both medically and spiritually.
Bamidele Oyindamola Patricia
I think people prefer orthodox medicine because it is subject to strict regulations and quality-control measures, which can provide reassurance about its safety and effectiveness, whereas herbal medicine may not undergo the same level of scrutiny. Also, exposure to and awareness of the modern healthcare system influence this decision. The choice of medicine can also be affected by social and cultural factors, such as education, environment, and socioeconomic background.
Alexander Iwala
The effect of education makes people believe more in orthodox than herbal medicines. Orthodox medicines are easily acquired and are available in all pharmaceutical stores around us. Orthodox medicines require prescriptions, unlike most herbal medicines. Some unreliable people may just mix harmful substances together to make money.
A case study is my father, who bought “agbo,” and it started affecting his stomach, which eventually led to his untimely death, despite all efforts to save him. People prefer orthodox medicines to herbal medicines because of their potency. Also, the preparation of orthodox medicines is certainly more hygienic than that of herbal practitioners, whose water or environment cannot always be trusted.