Medical body raises the alarm over use of unregulated herbal medicines in Zambia

The Medical for Quality Healthcare in Zambia (MQHZ) has raised alarm over the increasing sale and use of unregulated herbal medicines and supplements, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to public health.

MQHZ Director General Quice Mwabu said in a statement on Sunday that the products have been linked to severe complications, including stroke, kidney and liver failure, and some cancers.

“We are particularly concerned about the reckless sale of products claiming to enhance physical attributes. These are not only deceptive but are contributing to the rising incidence of certain cancers and potentially fatal consequences,” Mwabu said.

He added that the dangerous practice of mixing sildenafil (Viagra), a prescription drug, with herbal concoctions to treat erectile dysfunction was exposing men to severe risks, including harmful drug interactions, adverse effects, and even death.

Mwabu stressed that the absence of effective regulation has created an environment where patients are endangered.

“Many of these herbal remedies lack scientific evidence to support their effectiveness in treating non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Their use can result in false hope, delayed medical care, and harmful interactions with prescribed medicines,” he explained.

MQHZ warned the public to be wary of unqualified individuals advertising herbal cures for chronic conditions, noting that many patients abandon life-saving medical treatment in favour of unregulated products, only to seek hospital care when it is too late.

To curb the trend, Mwabu urged the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) to intensify inspections of herbal shops and clinics, enforce product registration and labeling standards, and prosecute offenders.

He further called on the Ministry of Health to collaborate with traditional healers to integrate safe practices into healthcare delivery, while also promoting public awareness about the dangers of unverified remedies.

“Public awareness campaigns should be launched to educate Zambians on the risks of unregulated herbal products, while more research must be supported to assess their safety and efficacy,” Mwabu said.

He emphasized that patients should seek care only from qualified health professionals at registered facilities.

“By working together, we can protect public health and ensure patients receive safe and effective treatment,” he added.

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