Background of the Study:
Traditional herbal medicine has long been integral to healthcare in Aniocha North Local Government, Delta State. Practitioners rely on indigenous knowledge passed through generations to treat various ailments using holistic approaches (Chinwe, 2023). However, challenges such as regulatory hurdles, competition from modern medical practices, and the gradual loss of traditional knowledge threaten the sustainability of these practices (Ikechukwu, 2024). Commercialization without proper standardization further undermines the credibility of herbal remedies (Uche, 2025). This study investigates the multifaceted challenges traditional herbal practitioners face, examining socio-economic and regulatory factors, and explores integration strategies with modern healthcare systems to ensure continued cultural relevance (Chinwe, 2023).
Statement of the Problem:
Traditional herbal medicine practitioners in Aniocha North confront challenges including strict regulatory constraints, competition from modern healthcare, and diminishing indigenous knowledge. These issues compromise the credibility and sustainability of traditional practices, warranting an in-depth investigation to safeguard culturally significant healthcare approaches (Ikechukwu, 2024; Uche, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
To identify key challenges faced by traditional herbal medicine practitioners.
To assess the impact of modern healthcare competition on traditional practices.
To recommend strategies for the sustainable integration of herbal medicine with modern systems.
Research Questions:
What challenges do traditional herbal practitioners face in Aniocha North?
How does modern healthcare competition affect traditional herbal practices?
What strategies can ensure the sustainability of traditional herbal medicine?
Research Hypotheses:
Regulatory constraints significantly hinder traditional herbal practices.
Modern healthcare competition negatively impacts the patronage of herbal medicine.
Integrative healthcare models can enhance the sustainability of traditional practices.
Significance of the Study:
This study provides valuable insights into the challenges confronting traditional herbal practitioners, offering recommendations that can inform policy and integration strategies to preserve indigenous healthcare methods while ensuring public health safety (Chinwe, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to traditional herbal medicine practitioners in Aniocha North Local Government, Delta State, focusing exclusively on their challenges. Limitations include potential sampling biases and reliance on qualitative interviews.
Definitions of Terms:
Traditional Herbal Medicine: Indigenous practices using plant-based remedies for healing.
Regulatory Constraints: Legal restrictions affecting the practice of herbal medicine.
Modern Healthcare: Contemporary medical practices based on scientific research and technology.
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