A medical expert has warned that while misuse of herbal medicines can contribute to kidney damage, they are not the leading cause of kidney disease in Ghana.Ghanaian news subscription

Dr. Prince Mawutor, a researcher at the Centre for Plant Medicine Research, told the Ghana News Agency that high blood pressure, diabetes, exposure to toxic substances, arteriosclerosis, and genetic factors remain the main drivers of kidney disease.

“Herbal and orthodox medicines can be beneficial when used appropriately but harmful when abused,” Dr. Mawutor said, adding “Any medication can become toxic if taken in excess. Once it accumulates in the body beyond safe levels, it can damage vital organs, including the kidneys.”

He cautioned that unregulated or improperly used herbal products increase the risk of kidney damage and stressed the importance of purchasing only approved herbal medicines.

Regulatory authorities, he noted, ensure that such products undergo safety and toxicity testing before reaching the market.Breaking news alert

Dr. Mawutor advised consumers to check for proper labelling, including the product name, ingredients, usage instructions, and traceable contact information.

“Consumers must avoid products with poor packaging, spelling errors, or exaggerated claims such as curing all diseases, as these are often unsafe,” he said.

He further urged individuals to consult qualified health professionals or certified medical herbalists before using herbal treatments, particularly when combining them with orthodox medicine.

Self-medication and purchases from roadside vendors, he warned, pose serious health risks.

“The Food and Drugs Authority does not approve products sold informally, such as from vehicles or on the streets, as they are unlikely to have undergone proper clinical trials,” Dr. Mawutor said.

He acknowledged that some patients with kidney complications had reported improvements using certain herbal remedies but cautioned against believing claims that herbal medicines can cure all illnesses.

“Herbal medicines may have a wide therapeutic range due to different phytochemicals, but it is misleading to claim they can cure all illnesses,” he added.

Dr. Mawutor called for intensified public education, particularly among market vendors and individuals who frequently rely on unregulated herbal products, to promote safe health practices and regular medical check-ups.

He urged the public to take responsibility for their health by seeking proper medical advice and adhering strictly to prescribed dosages.

Source: GNA