Community perceptions on the use of traditional medicines for management of covid-19 in Ilala, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

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.