Health Information and Users’ Beliefs: A Study of Herbal Medicine Users’ Attitudes to Efcacy of Herbal Medicine

Abstract

The study examined the correlation between herbal users’ beliefs and the efficacy of herbal medicine based on health information. The study was anchored on the Health Belief Model which predicts health behaviours by focusing on the attitudes and beliefs of individuals. Using survey design, the study was carried out in select towns of Awka, Onitsha and Nnewi which represent three senatorial zones in Anambra State, Nigeria. The sample size of 400 respondents was randomly selected. The questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. Major findings revealed that users’ beliefs do not necessarily add to the potency of herbal drugs. It also revealed that interpersonal communication is most effective through testimonials/referrals by users. Social media is equally effective for an online audience but there is minimal use of mainstream media. Based on the findings, it is recommended that health education and health information should be emphasised. Equally, regulatory bodies in Nigeria such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration (NAFDAC) should ensure strict adherence to standards on herbal products and the nature of information and claims.