Professional associations, ethics and discipline among Yoruba traditional healers of Nigeria

Abstract

Four Yoruba traditional healers were interviewed on their professional associations and the objectives of such association. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 165 traditional healers on the ethics of traditional medicine and the discipline of erring members. Photographs were made of sign-posts related to the practice of traditional medicine found in strategic locations in and around Ibadan city. The results of the study showed a proliferation of Yoruba herbalist associations. These associations serve as meeting points for healers for social purposes, and to share their professional experiences. There are rules and regulations (mostly unwritten) that guide the practice of traditional healers. Disciplinary bodies also exist to deal with offending members. The misleading nature of one herbalist's sign post is highlighted. The disadvantage of not having a central professional body to control its activities, and the dangers of unsubstantiated claim of proficiency in the treatment of certain diseases by herbalists is emphasized.

The invited comments on this paper have stressed the growing interest in traditional medicine and have touched on some of the problems confronting researchers and health planners in matters relating to traditional healers. The author is in agreement with many of these comments and has attempted giving answers to some of the questions raised by the discussants.