Health experts have warned Nigerians against relying on unverified herbal concoctions to treat jaundice and other symptoms, saying such practices could delay the diagnosis and treatment of serious liver diseases. Jaundice is a medical condition that turns the skin and the whites of the eyes yellow.
Experts say jaundice is a symptom rather than a disease and may be caused by conditions including Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, liver failure and bile duct problems. They noted that Hepatitis B can remain undetected for years while gradually damaging the liver, with some patients eventually presenting with cirrhosis or liver cancer after prolonged delays in seeking medical care.
A case from Abuja illustrates the concern. A 34-year-old man who initially treated jaundice and other symptoms with herbal mixtures was later diagnosed with advanced liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Specialists say cases like this highlight the danger of treating symptoms without proper medical evaluation and hepatitis testing.
Health professionals also raised concerns about some unregulated herbal preparations, often called ‘Agbo’, sold in markets and motor parks, noting that products without proper labels, dosage information or regulatory approval may pose additional health risks. They urged stronger regulation of the informal herbal medicine market while encouraging traditional medicine practitioners to refer people with warning signs for medical testing.
According to health authorities, more than 20 million Nigerians are living with viral hepatitis, while many infected people remain unaware of their status. Experts called for wider access to affordable screening, Hepatitis B vaccination, early treatment and public education to reduce deaths from preventable liver complications.
They urged Nigerians experiencing persistent jaundice, fatigue or other unusual symptoms to seek proper medical evaluation rather than relying solely on herbal remedies. Experts stressed that early diagnosis remains critical to preventing hepatitis from progressing to severe liver disease and cancer.
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