Level of Utilization of Traditional and Orthodox Medicines by Rural Dwellers in Ile-Ogbo Community of Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the level of utilization of traditional and orthodox medicine by rural dwellers in Ile-Ogbo community of Osun State. Structured questionnaires and interview schedules were used to collect data from one hundred and forty adult males and females who were randomly selected from the rural house list generated by snowball technique. Key primary data collected include the level of utilization of traditional, the level of utilization of orthodox medicine and the factors influencing the use of medicines. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, PPMC, t-test and regression analysis at p=0.05. Results indicate that 81.5% were between the ages of 20-59 years, 30.7% had no formal education and 41.4% had farming as their main occupation. Majority (82.9%) rated efficacy and safety as the most important factor influencing the use of orthodox medicine and 50.7% had preference for orthodox medicine. Household size (r=0.244) had low inverse but significant correlation with the utilization of orthodox medicine. With traditional medicine, there was a significant relationship (r=0.279) between household size and utilization. There existed a significant difference in the utilization of traditional medicine and orthodox medicine (t=-2.734), with orthodox medicine having higher use. It is paramount therefore for relevant agencies to ensure adequate supply of orthodox medical drugs in the rural health centers in order to meet the health needs of rural dwellers.

Key words: Traditional medicine, Orthodox medicine, Utilization