By Huldah Shado
The Plant Treatment Oasis Association of Nigeria, a body of professional biochemists, has urged the Federal Government to integrate herbal and alternative medicine into the national healthcare system to enhance citizens’ well-being.
Speaking shortly after the association’s 2025 conference in Abuja, its President, Olayemi Ikotun, said Nigeria stands to benefit immensely from the medicinal potential of plant-based supplements, which have proven effective in treating various ailments without adverse side effects.
“Our members have been producing natural medicinal supplements derived from raw plant materials. These remedies are potent, safe, and effective, unlike many synthetic drugs,” Ikotun said.
He lamented that despite its deep cultural roots, traditional and herbal medicine continues to be sidelined in favour of orthodox medical practices.
He called for government recognition and support to harness herbal treatments as complementary healthcare options.
Ikotun noted that older generations in Nigeria enjoyed longer, healthier lives through natural remedies, a practice that can now be enhanced through biochemistry and modern research.
He also disclosed that the association has participated in several national research summits advocating policy support for herbal medicine development and regulation.
“The government should create an enabling environment for the regulation, research, and integration of alternative medicine into our health framework,” he added.
The conference, themed “Advancement of Natural Plant Supplement in Nigeria,” brought together researchers, practitioners, and new inductees who reaffirmed their commitment to promoting safe, science-based, and culturally relevant healthcare solutions through Nigeria’s rich medicinal plant resources.
