Abstract:
Background: Traditional medicines have been used since long time ago even before the
introduction of modern medicines, as treatment for various diseases including respiratory
illnesses. DuringCOVID-19 outbreak, traditional medicines were promoted as one of the
means in management ofCOVID-19 in Tanzania.
Objective: This study aimed to explore the perceptions of the community on use of
traditional medicines in management of COVID-19. Specifically, the study focused on
understanding how adults within the community perceive the increased use of traditional
medicines for management ofCOVID-19 in Ilala, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Methods: This was a cross sectional exploratory study. In-depth interview guide was used
to collect data. The study population was adults (both males and females), residing and
working in Ilala Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The study participants were
selected purposively and the sample size for the study were 16 respondents. The in-depth
interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed verbatim, analyzed and subjected to thematic
analysis with the assistance of NVivo 12? Software.
Findings: The study findings showed that people within the community were concerned
with traditional medicines’ use in management of COVID-19 in Tanzania. Some of the
study participants perceived traditional medicines as safe and reliable for management of
COVID-19. While some study participants were of the view that traditional medicines
were beneficial especially in the treatment and control of COVID-19 symptomatic
conditions. However, some study participants reported that traditional medicines could
have allergic reactions or side effects.
Conclusion: Adults in the community perceive the use of traditional medicines as safe
and beneficial in the management of COVID-19. However, some study participants were
of the view that the traditional medicines could have some side effects when used for
management of COVID-19. Generally, there is a need for improvement and promotion of
traditional medicines awareness for fighting against COVID-19
