Consumer Perception and Utilisation of Herbal Medicine for Childhood Illnesses in Owerri, Imo State, South East Nigeria

Parental and caregiver decision-making about the use of herbal medicine for childhood illnesses is shaped by cultural norms, economic factors, and perceived treatment efficacy. In Owerri, Imo State, South East Nigeria, herbal preparations remain a widely employed first-line response to common childhood ailments including fever, cough, and diarrhoea. This study examines consumer perceptions and patterns of herbal medicine utilisation for childhood illnesses in three residential zones of Owerri Municipal. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 300 mothers and primary caregivers of children under ten years through systematic random sampling. A validated structured questionnaire collected data on the frequency, type, and purpose of herbal medicine use, perceived safety and effectiveness, and disclosure practices to orthodox healthcare providers. Seventy-four percent of respondents had administered herbal preparations to their children in the preceding six months, with fever management being the most common indication. Belief in efficacy (72%), cultural familiarity (65%), and cost-effectiveness (61%) were the leading drivers. Only 38% considered herbal preparations to be potentially harmful. Non-disclosure to clinic physicians was reported by 53% of respondents. Caregiver educational attainment was the strongest predictor of both herbal use frequency and non-disclosure behaviour. These findings highlight the need for community pharmacist-led herbal medicine counselling and culturally sensitive pediatric pharmacovigilance programmes in Imo State. Keywords: herbal medicine, childhood illnesses, consumer perception, Owerri, caregiver behaviour