Herbal medicinal therapy for haemorrhoid and sexual dysfunction - perception and practice among adult males in Ibadan metropolis, Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

The application of herbal medicinal products for diverse therapeutic purposes is on the rise inSouthwestern, Nigeria due to its relative effectiveness, accessibility, and affordability. This study aimed to assess the perception and application of herbal medicinal products for the treatment of haemorrhoid and sexual dysfunction (SD) among adult males in Ibadan metropolis, Southwest Nigeria. The study involved 283 randomly selected adult male residents of the Ibadan metropolis, between 20 to 69 years old, and covering different marital statuses, levels of education and professional careers. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted to evaluate the perception and experience of the subjects about the application of herbal-based therapy for haemorrhoid and SD. Based on the results, the most dominant groups include 20 to 29 years old (51.6%), single (59.4%), first-degree holders (55.8%), and public servants (52.7%). Furthermore, 61.5% of the respondents reported prior experience of haemorrhoid; 73.8% opined that the condition could lead to SD; 87% and 60.2% believed that herbal medicine can be used to treat haemorrhoid and SD respectively. There was correlation between the age and level of education of respondents with methods of treating SD and experience of side effects due to herbal therapy. The study population holds an affirmative opinion that herbal medicinal products are effective for the treatment of haemorrhoids and SD. The application of herbal therapy will continue to increase among the study population hence, there is a need to regulate and standardize its production and therapeutic applications.