An Assessment of the Islamic Stand on Western and Yoruba Traditional Herbal Medicine in Nigeria

This paper addresses issues arising from the relationship between religion and medicine in Nigeria, with emphasis on the Islamic stand on sickness and diseases, healing and herbal medicine. The focus is on the healing systems available in Nigeria and on how Yoruba Muslims perceive and respond to Western orthodox and traditional herbal medicines. Taking an analytical approach, the study first examines the relationship between religion and medicine on the one hand, and healing systems on the other, in both traditional and contemporary Nigerian society. Next, it reviews the Islamic approach to health in general. Finally, it assesses the healing methods offered and used in Nigeria, especially in Yoruba-land, from the Islamic point of view.