Use of herbal medicine during pregnancy and attitudes of pregnant women in Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

Herbal medicines have been used for disease prevention and treatment for both humans and animals worldwide. The present study was designed to determine the herbs used during pregnancy in Jos and to evaluate attitudes of pregnant women. The survey was carried out in antenatal clinics. Information was obtained from pregnant women (17-60 years) through both informal, unstructured conversations and the use of structured questionnaire. Botanical data were focused on the name and part of the herbs or plant used during pregnancy including herbs, herbal preparations and finished products having medicinal properties. In total, 300 pregnant women were enrolled for this study. The respondents were farmers (33.3 %), housewives (26.7%) and students (23.3 %). The most commonly used herbs were, garlic (16.7 %), pawpaw (13.6 %), ginger (13.0 %) and Moringa (8.0 %). Among the parts, bulb was the most used (16.7 %) followed by fruits (14 %). The most common reasons for the use were: herbal medicine is more effective than conventional medicine for some medications (20 %) and more easily accessed than conventional medicine (20 %). Most of the women were advised by family (31.3 %) and believed herbs had fewer side effects. The findings revealed their knowledge on medicinal plants. The women used one or more herbal medicine during pregnancy.

Keywords: Pregnant women; Herbal medicine; Medicinal plants; Jos; Nigeria