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Tradition meets maternity: herbal medicine use in pregnancy and breastfeeding in Berber, Sudan
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DOI：10.1016/j.hermed.2025.101084.png)
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Abstract
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Background: The use of herbal medicine has surged globally in recent decades, with a significant proportion of populations, particularly in Africa, relying on traditional remedies for healthcare needs. This study investigates the prevalence and patterns of herbal medicine use among pregnant and breastfeeding women in Berber city, northern Sudan. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2023 to January 2024 among pregnant and breastfeeding women attending obstetrics and gynaecology clinics in Berber. Data were collected through structured, face-to-face interviews covering demographics, herbal use during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding, types of herbs used, perceived benefits, adverse effects, and sources of information. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 23. Results: Among 250 participants, 60.4% reported not using herbal medicine during pregnancy, while 95.2% reported use during breastfeeding. Commonly used herbs included Almahrib (Cymbopogon schoenanthus), cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), and Argel (Solenostemma argel), used for labour induction, uterine cleansing, flavouring, and lactation support. Cultural beliefs were the main motivator (58.7%), with family and friends cited as the primary information sources (86.8%). Adverse effects were rarely reported, and only 10.8% of participants consulted healthcare providers. No significant associations were found between demographic variables and herbal use during pregnancy, but age was significantly associated with herbal use during breastfeeding (P = 0.024). Conclusion: Herbal medicine use is widespread among women in Berber, particularly during breastfeeding, largely influenced by cultural practices. While generally perceived as safe, low consultation rates with healthcare professionals highlight the need for culturally sensitive, evidence-based education to support safe maternal health practices.
Keywords:
Herbal medicine
Complementary alternative medicines
Pregnancy
Breastfeeding women
River Nile
Sudan
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