Abstract

A phenomenological study involving leaders of different faith groups revealed different opinions about the use of indigenous medicinal plants to treat human ailments. Some churches seem to have incorporated cultural beliefs into their doctrines and so were more receptive to the idea of using traditional medicines. However, a number of them still query the quality, usefulness and safety of traditional medicines because scientific nomenclature and quantities of the active ingredients in the plants were not known. The Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) church indicated their involvement in research that helped make decisions on the use of herbs. The only group of churches that denied the use and value of herbal plants was the Independent African Churches (OIACH). The majority of faith leaders acknowledged the existence and use of herbal plants by the society and have encouraged their followers to use traditional medicine. It is believed that church leaders were at a position to influence the use or rejection of herbal plants. In conclusion, there were a variety of opinions about the use of herbal medicines and such opinions were dependent on the doctrines of various churches.

Key words: Medicinal plants, human ailments, faith leaders, religious organizations, churches.