THE USE OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE IN THE TREATMENT OF MALARIA AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN ILORIN METROPOLIS

Abstract

Malaria remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly among pregnant women, where it contributes significantly to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Despite the widespread availability of modern antimalarial therapies, many pregnant women continue to rely on traditional medicine for prevention and treatment. This study investigated the prevalence and perception of
the use of traditional medicine for malaria treatment among pregnant women in Ilorin Metropolis. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted. The population comprised all pregnant women in Ilorin West, East, and South Local Government Area who had experienced malaria during pregnancy. A sample of 362 respondents was selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a validated researcher-designed questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.78. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and means). Findings revealed a high prevalence of traditional medicine use for malaria treatment among pregnant women in Ilorin Metropolis, with 86% of respondents reporting use of herbal mixtures and 84% using neem leaves (dogonyaro). Perceived efficacy was high (84% agreement), though safety concerns remained moderate (47% agreement). Respondents aged 26-35 years constituted 45.5% of the sample, 47.5% were multiparous, and 49.5% were in their third trimester. Many respondents also expressed a preference for combining traditional and modern healthcare, suggesting the potential for safe and structured integration. The study concludes that traditional medicine remains an essential component of malaria management among pregnant women in Ilorin Metropolis. It recommends government regulation, public health education, and scientific validation of commonly used herbs to ensure safe, effective, and evidence-based integration of traditional medicine into Nigeria's maternal healthcare system.