The former Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Kwara Chapter, Mr Olayiwola Olusina has urged the Federal Government to fund more research on herbal drug’s efficacy in Nigeria.
Olusina made the call on Saturday in Ilorin during an interview.
The former chairman explained that research into herbal drugs in Nigeria was needed to address safety concerns, ensure quality, and improve public health.
According to him, the research pattern in medicinal plants and traditional medicine practices in Nigeria is not unknown.
‘The quality, safety, and efficacy of herbal medicines need to be regulated by the government as the public may not be aware of its potential toxicities
“Ensuring the safety of herbal medicines is important for maintaining societal health.
“As a developing nation, some Nigerians only have access to herbal medicines, as the orthodox drugs have become too expensive to access,’’ he said.
Olusina pointed out that with more research on efficacy of herbs, Nigeria could utilise the medicine in its health sector, alongside the orthodox drugs.
He also urged universities across the country to do more research on trado-medicines, with adequate funding from government for standardisation.
NAN
