Herbal Concoction popularly known as Agbo in the south western part of Nigeria is no stranger to Nigerians as it has been used from generation to generation to cure illnesses until civilization brought modern medicine and people abandoned Herbal Concoction for Modern Medicine.
However, the current economic downturn in Nigeria coupled with expensive prices of Modern Medicine has made a lot of Nigerians turn back to herbal remedies as they are cheaper. But, there is a downside to this as its constant usage can have negative impacts on human health. Negative impact such as resistance to Antibiotics.
This was made known by a Professor of Microbiology, Professor Moses Efuntoye, during the 116th inaugural lecture of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State, where he gave a speech on the topic ‘The Triad of Toughness, Tenacity, and Tameness in the Tale of Antibiotic Resistance’.
The professor said, “From the level of mycotoxin detected in the crude herbal products during several studies, it is evident that the drugs were suitable for the elaboration of mycotoxin. It therefore means that there is a need for caution in the use of some herbal drugs sold in our markets these days.”
While giving the speech he also made it known that these days, bacterias are known to now form ‘cooperative bodies’ in order to resist the effects of antibiotics.
He further made it known that antimicrobial resistance is not just affecting Nigeria alone, but is also a global problem. Therefore, he implored the Nigerian government to look for substitutes for Antibiotics through investing in research through our various universities.
He said “While antibiotic resistance is undoubtedly a global problem, it also requires shared responsibility by different countries. Each country is expected to engage in actions and interventions that are specific to its health system in controlling the escalation of this global threat. Efforts should also be made to explore alternatives to antibiotics in the treatment of infections.”