Ghana turns to Indigenous plants as Western medicine costs rise

About 60 to 70 percent of Ghanaians rely on traditional plant-based medicine as rising costs make Western pharmaceuticals less accessible, according to a 2023 study. The Center for Plant Medicine Research, a government agency, sees about 16,000 outpatients monthly and validates Indigenous knowledge scientifically. Dr. Kofi Donkor says rural communities use these remedies due to accessibility, cost, and familiarity, with traditional medicine forming 80 percent of primary care in developing countries. Researchers are studying West African plants, including a shrub showing promise against prostate cancer. Vendors in Accra markets sell herbs like mother-in-law tongue for ailments, though Donkor warns proper dosage is critical for safe and effective treatment.