Traditional Medicines for HIV/AIDS Infections in Tanzania
Author Information
Author(s): Kisangau Daniel P, Lyaruu Herbert VM, Hosea Ken M, Joseph Cosam C
Primary Institution: University of Dar es Salaam
Hypothesis
What traditional medicines are used in the management of HIV/AIDS opportunistic infections in Bukoba rural district, Tanzania?
Conclusion
The study provides a detailed account of traditional medicines used to manage HIV/AIDS opportunistic infections, highlighting the need for further research on their bioactive constituents.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 90% of the population in Bukoba rural district relies on traditional medicines for managing HIV/AIDS.
- 75 plant species were documented for treating HIV/AIDS related infections.
- TB and oral candidiasis were the most common opportunistic infections reported.
Takeaway
People in Tanzania use plants to help treat infections related to HIV/AIDS, and this study found 75 different plants that are used for this purpose.
Methodology
Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted using semi-structured questionnaires and descriptive statistics to analyze the data.
Limitations
The knowledge of traditional medicines is primarily held by older individuals, risking loss of this information.
Participant Demographics
The participants were primarily herbal practitioners aged between 32 and 80, with a majority being women and non-educated peasant farmers.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website