AFRICAN GODS AS POTENT FORCES IN THE EFFICACY OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE
The main aim of this research work is to review and highlight the importance, prophylactic and therapeutic potentials of medicinal plants from the African ecological biodiversity inspired by God through his pantheon of gods who serve as potent forces in the efficacy of African Traditional Medicine and whose spiritual roles are always undermined and degraded. The research method adopted here is the phenomenological research method. Having been identified as people notoriously religious, and being hemmed round with a strong belief in God and other pantheons of divinities, Africans through the help of deities have identified certain herbs that cure different ailments. It however should be noted that this work is conceived as a result of excruciating pains and effects observed among Africans over the years of their existence through expenditure on orthodox medicine. The Nigerian people of West Africa believe in the power of her herbalists to cure ailments using herbs. Christians and Muslims also seek medical help from herbalists in the face of medical challenges. The paper argues that traditional medical system inspired by the gods who are today despised, used to be the dominant health care system in Africa prior to colonialism. To some extent, colonialism, Western religion and education as well as globalisation phenomenon have negatively affected perception about African Traditional Medicine. This notwithstanding, the demand for and use of African Traditional Medicine have continued to grow not only in Africa but indeed the entire world. As with all things traditionally African, we must learn from the past, build on it and carry it forward for continued growth.
Keywords: african, efficacy, forces, gods, medicine, potent, traditional