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  • Challenges Of African Traditional Healing System: Implication For The Development Of Indigenous Psychotherapy

    Challenges Of African Traditional Healing System: Implication For The Development Of Indigenous Psychotherapy

    Abstract

    Traditional medicine is the sum total of knowledge, skills and practices based on the theories,
    beliefs and experiences indigenous to different cultures that are used to maintain health, as
    well as to prevent, diagnose, improve or treat physical and mental illnesses. This paper
    explores the challenges of African traditional healing system and the implications for the
    development of indigenous psychotherapy. Previous studies show that about 80% of the
    population in Asian, African and some developed countries depend on traditional medicine
    for primary health care. Rate of acceptability, use, confidence in and efficacy of traditional
    healing system is increasing in Nigeria. Some indigenous traditional healing methods include
    herbalism, therapeutic dieting, and hydrotherapy and spirituality (divination). Notable
    challenges include international diversity, national policy and regulation, perceived safety,
    effectiveness and quality, knowledge and sustainability, patient safety and use. This study
    recommends that more research be carried out on African traditional healing, that the
    religious and metaphysical elements be separated from the physical matter, commitment of
    more resources to test and promote the use of safe and efficacious traditional medicines,
    practicing traditional healers should adhere to standardized norms and qualifications. There
    is need for speedy passing of the traditional health practitioners’ bill.