Indigenous Knowledge on Herbal Treatment of Pediatric Illnesses Among the Luo Community in Kenya

Abstract

This study investigates indigenous knowledge of herbal treatments for Pediatric illnesses in Kenya. The study examines the depth and diversity of knowledge held by women within the Luo community. The study employed a qualitative research design. Data was collected from seven purposefully selected women respondents through structured interviews to explore their knowledge and practices regarding 91 distinct Luo herbal treatments used for various ailments affecting children. On average, the findings revealed that each respondent had treated 46 varied ailments using herbal medicine, emphasizing the rich repository of indigenous knowledge women possess. Despite differences in individual knowledge, a significant overlap of remedies was observed, indicating shared understanding within the community. Herbal medicine preparation methods demonstrate diverse techniques and application methods, distinct classification of ailments, meticulous observation of symptoms, and cautionary measures against combining biomedical and herbal treatments. The study highlights the interconnectedness of various illnesses, emphasizing the consequences of untreated conditions. The practical implications of the findings underscore the importance of preserving and integrating indigenous knowledge into contemporary healthcare practices. This study recommends the need for further ethnographic research and collaboration between traditional and modern healthcare systems to reduce child mortality rates. It offers valuable insights into the richness of indigenous knowledge, particularly in treating pediatric illnesses, with emphasis on its originality and its significance in healthcare practices. The study contributes to the ongoing discourse on the integration of traditional medicine with modern healthcare systems, offering potential pathways to enhance pediatric healthcare practices globally