Professor David Katerere, the Research Chair in Pharmaceutical & Biotech Advancement in Africa at Tshwane University of Technology (PBA2), explores the nuances of traditional medicine and emphasizes the necessity to bolster scientific evidence supporting these remedies.
Characterized by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as practices deeply rooted in cultural traditions, traditional medicine encompasses an array of techniques, from herbal remedies to acupuncture, and it has a profound historical significance across diverse ethnic groups. While modern science cannot always elucidate how and why traditional medicine works, its continued efficacy is evident.
Notably, the recent WHO summit acknowledged the vital role played by traditional medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic, exemplified by the use of specific herbs and plant-based solutions for immune support and hygiene. This recognition underscores the need to integrate traditional medicine into established healthcare systems, necessitating both policy changes and continued scientific inquiry.
In South Africa, traditional medicine stands apart from regulated healthcare disciplines. While the recognition of traditional medicine is evident, there remains a crucial need for standardized training and registration of practitioners. The ongoing dialogue about regulation, focused on protecting consumers while acknowledging the historical suppression and legitimacy of African Traditional Medicines (ATM), forms a significant part of this trajectory.
Despite challenges such as the limited clinical testing of traditional medicines due to high costs, numerous research initiatives at Tshwane University of Technology and across the country aim to validate claims and explore new applications. Notably, projects on HIV management, nutrition drinks, indigenous African mushrooms, and cannabis illustrate the depth of exploration within traditional medicine’s research landscape.
Investment in traditional medicine’s scientific validation not only opens doors for job creation but also has the potential to enhance healthcare practices and combat societal issues. Emphasizing collaborative integrative medicine between traditional healers and medical practitioners, coupled with regulatory support for research, can pave the way for a more comprehensive and efficacious healthcare approach.