David Lawrence1, Helen Smith1, Enoch Magala2, Maxwell Cooper3. 1. Division of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Brighton, Falmer, East Sussex BN1 9PH, UK. 2. Centre for Youth Driven Development Initiatives, Ndazabazadde, Wakiso, P.O. Box 28807, Kampala, Uganda. 3. Division of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Brighton, Falmer, East Sussex BN1 9PH, UK m.cooper@bsms.ac.uk.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Herbal medication is the most commonly used form of healthcare in Africa. However, little is known about its use by young Africans in the urban context. METHODS: This qualitative study explored opinions about herbal medicine and its uses among young people in the Wakiso district, Uganda. RESULTS: About a third of interview participants reported using herbal products, a choice influenced by religious faith, family preference, low cost and unavailability of biomedicines. Two participants stated that herbs could be used to deter alcohol dependence. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicated divergent opinions about the value of herbal medicine among young urban Ugandans.
BACKGROUND: Herbal medication is the most commonly used form of healthcare in Africa. However, little is known about its use by young Africans in the urban context. METHODS: This qualitative study explored opinions about herbal medicine and its uses among young people in the Wakiso district, Uganda. RESULTS: About a third of interview participants reported using herbal products, a choice influenced by religious faith, family preference, low cost and unavailability of biomedicines. Two participants stated that herbs could be used to deter alcohol dependence. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicated divergent opinions about the value of herbal medicine among young urban Ugandans.
Authors: Erin V Moore; William Ddaaki; Jennifer S Hirsch; Larry Chang; Fred Nalugoda; John S Santelli Journal: Soc Sci Med Date: 2022-01-29 Impact factor: 4.634