Socioeconomic and cultural factors influencing traditional medicine (TM) use in Nigeria: A systematic mixed method review

IF 1.9 4区医学 Q3 INTEGRATIVE & COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE European Journal of Integrative Medicine Pub Date : 2025-02-01 DOI:10.1016/j.eujim.2025.102436

Abel Onolunosen Abhadionmhen , Edobor Peter Kenneth Imarenezor , Alloysius Chibuike Ogodo , Ahamefula Anslem Ahuchaogu

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Abstract

Introduction

Nigeria, with its diverse population and rich cultural heritage, presents a unique landscape for healthcare. Traditional medicine (TM) plays a significant role, particularly in rural areas with limited access to modern healthcare. This systematic mixed-methods review examines how socioeconomic and cultural factors influence the use of TM in Nigeria, addressing gaps in understanding how these factors affect healthcare choices and integration with modern systems.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and African Journals Online (AJOL), covering studies from January 2013 to the present. Keywords included "herbal medicine," "traditional medicine," "socioeconomic factors," and "Nigeria." Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed studies in English addressing socioeconomic and cultural factors in Nigeria. Quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tool. Data were extracted and synthesized through narrative synthesis and thematic analysis. The protocol for this systematic mixed-methods review was registered under the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with number - CRD42024585769.

Results

Of 4,701 records, 20 studies met inclusion criteria. Socioeconomic factors like income and education significantly influenced TM use, with affordability driving preference among lower-income groups. Cultural factors, including traditional beliefs and social norms, also played a crucial role. Findings suggest that gaps in formal healthcare and cultural adherence contribute to the continued use of TM remedies.

Conclusion

Socioeconomic constraints and cultural beliefs heavily influence herbal medicine use in Nigeria. Understanding these factors can inform public health strategies, improve regulatory frameworks, and enhance the integration of traditional and modern healthcare systems.

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来源期刊

European Journal of Integrative Medicine INTEGRATIVE & COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE-

CiteScore

4.70

自引率

4.00%

发文量

102

审稿时长

33 days

期刊介绍： The European Journal of Integrative Medicine (EuJIM) considers manuscripts from a wide range of complementary and integrative health care disciplines, with a particular focus on whole systems approaches, public health, self management and traditional medical systems. The journal strives to connect conventional medicine and evidence based complementary medicine. We encourage submissions reporting research with relevance for integrative clinical practice and interprofessional education. EuJIM aims to be of interest to both conventional and integrative audiences, including healthcare practitioners, researchers, health care organisations, educationalists, and all those who seek objective and critical information on integrative medicine. To achieve this aim EuJIM provides an innovative international and interdisciplinary platform linking researchers and clinicians. The journal focuses primarily on original research articles including systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, other clinical studies, qualitative, observational and epidemiological studies. In addition we welcome short reviews, opinion articles and contributions relating to health services and policy, health economics and psychology.