Exploring the role of traditional remedies, cultural practices, and belief interventions in combating COVID-19 in Dodoma City, Tanzania

Abstract

This research sheds light on the role of cultural practices and traditional remedies in combating COVID-19, addressing the health and socio-economic challenges of the pandemic. It focuses on how local communities used indigenous knowledge, cultural rituals, and traditional medicines. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey among residents, interviews with local healers and pharmacy dispensers, focus group discussions with community elders, and observation, to assess the perceived efficacy, accessibility, and cultural significance of these practices. Additionally, the active compounds, antimicrobial properties, pH, and toxicity levels of traditional remedies were tested using standard laboratory testing methods. The findings indicate that while modern medicine played a critical role in managing the pandemic, many people turned to traditional herbs, steam therapy, and other culturally rooted practices as complementary treatments. Natural immune boosters and traditional medicines produced in Tanzania were seen as effective and accessible for managing symptoms like cough, fever, and respiratory difficulties. All tested traditional medicine brands were deemed safe for consumption. Active compounds found in various remedies were alkaloids (40–54 %), flavonoids (25–35 %), saponins (20–27 %), polyphenols (50 %), and terpenoids (20 %) were found in various remedies, along with specific pH levels and essential oils like limonene, menthol, eucalyptol, and camphor. While these remedies are culturally significant, scientific validation of their safety and effectiveness is needed. Integrating traditional and modern medicine could offer valuable options for advancing healthcare. • Investigated the role of cultural practices and traditional remedies in combating COVID-19 amid global challenges. • Surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observations assessed the efficacy, accessibility, and cultural significance of remedies. • Traditional herbs, steam therapy, and cultural practices complemented modern medicine in managing respiratory issues, cough, and fever. • Active compounds in medicine brands included alkaloids (40–54 %), flavonoids (25–35 %), saponins (20–27 %), terpenoids (20 %), limonene (60 %), menthol (32 %), eucalyptol (55 %), and camphor (30 %). All traditional remedies tested were safe for consumption.