Use Of Herbal Medicine Among Pregnant Women Attending A Tertiary Hospital In Northern Nigeria

Background: There is limited data on the use of herbal medicine by pregnant women in Nigeria. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence of use, socio-demographic pattern, knowledge and attitude of pregnant women to the use of herbal medicine among those attending the antenatal clinic of the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, a tertiary hospital in Northern Nigeria.Methods: A prepiloted structured questionnaire was administered on 500 pregnant women attending the clinic to collect data on demographic s, obstetric factors, knowledge and use of herbal medicine during pregnancy. Results: 31.4% of pregnant women used herbal medicines in the subsisting pregnancy. Over 40% of respondents had at least primary education while nearly 30% had an income of less than 20,000 naira(130 USD) monthly. Statistically Significant associations were found between herbal medicine use and no formal education(p<.05), low economic status (p<5) and self medication with orthodox drugs(p<.05). Ginger (zingiber officinale) and Garlic (allium sativa) were the most commonly used herbal medicines recalled by respondents. There was a significant association between education of respondents and their knowledge on safety of herbal medicines while a disparity was found between their views and practice.Conclusion: Use of herbal medicine among pregnant women in this environment was high. Clinicians and caregivers should have knowledge of the herbs commonly used by pregnant women and the potentials for toxicity. Attention should be given to enlightenment of pregnant women and the community on the dangers of herbal drug use during pregnancy.