From Prejudice to Preference: the Case of Traditional Medicine in Nsukka, Nigeria, 1960-2014

Abstract

This study attempts to explain why Phyto-medicine referred to as Ogwu Igbo has remained relevant in the health care delivery system of Nsukka Igbo despite its derision following the advent of Western medicine. Nsukka people have had a rich tradition of herbal medicine for their health challenges but much has not been researched, a gap this intends to fill. Primary and secondary data such as journals, books, interviews and Ad-Hoc observations and accounts were analysed qualitatively using historical and self-report technique which revealed the people were depending on traditional medicine increasingly due to several factors. It submits that economic hardships and the efficacy of traditional medicine have promoted its acceptance.