By Chioma Obinna

A new book titled “Herbal Spices: Local Foods as Medicines” has identified and validated local foods that can be used to treat common ailments.

In a foreword to the book, Prof. Olukemi Odukoya, a pharmacognosist at the Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos, and an advocate of herbal medicine, emphasized the growing recognition among health professionals that food plays not just a supplemental but a central role in people’s health globally.

“It is therefore necessary to study our local foods and traditional diets to promote the well-being of the populace through reading this book, Herbal Spices: Local Foods as Medicines which is just the beginning of a long journey. This first volume consists of 10 chapters and contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the needs required for radiant health and longevity at affordable costs. The reader will greatly benefit from the fundamental advantages of consuming local foods,” she stated.

The author, Chukwuma Muanya, presents evidence-based and scientifically validated herbal remedies for chronic diseases in the book.

He discusses how he has successfully prevented and treated common illnesses in Nigeria, including malaria, typhoid fever, hepatitis, toothache, Staphylococcus aureus infections, premature ejaculation, low libido in both men and women, erectile dysfunction, fibroids, prostate enlargement, ulcers, HIV/AIDS, cancers, hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, diarrhea, infertility, tuberculosis, colds, coughs, catarrh, hemorrhoids, and more, using herbs.

The author, Mr Chukwuma Muanya is a conventional herbalist, pharmacognocist, researcher, science and health writer, and media consultant.

Muanya who is currently the Chief Executive Officer of CAMS DIAMONDS Nigeria Limited disclosed that the 178-page book was published by EPH Business Network Limited, Lagos, and has the ISBN: 9789787744239.

According to him, “Indeed, poor diet is a leading cause of health issues and accounts for more deaths than alcohol and drug abuse.

“Food serves a purpose beyond appeasing hunger; it shapes our identity and is deeply rooted in our heritage and culture. With a little attention to the health benefits of our food choices, we can improve our quality of life and ultimately enjoy the wealth that comes from good health.

Hippocrates, the father of medicine, famously said, “Let food be thy medicine and let medicine be thy food.” The first part of this statement (Let food be thy medicine) applies to those who are unwell, while the second part (Let medicine be thy food) serves those who are healthy. Positive natural foods act as true remedies for the sick, in contrast to synthetic drugs, which often carry adverse side effects.

“For the healthy, consuming natural foods can provide a path to freedom from disease. Thus, the philosophy behind Hippocrates’ words emphasises the importance of prevention through a diet of local foods.

“In traditional cultures, food and medicine were intricately connected. Many special foods were valued for their ability to treat or prevent illnesses, and this knowledge was carefully passed down through generations.”

The book noted that the foods included in our diets play a vital role in regulating inflammation, balancing blood sugar, and ensuring proper cardiovascular health, including blood pressure and cholesterol levels. They also assist the digestive system in processing and eliminating waste.

“Many Nigerians suffer from various health ailments, in part due to shifts in lifestyle and diet. Issues like cancers and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, stroke, and kidney damage, are common. Healthcare costs have become unaffordable, and conventional medications are often proving ineffective, particularly as resistance to standard treatments grows. There are also increasing concerns over adverse drug reactions, treatment failures, and counterfeit or adulterated medications.”

The book covered several critical topics such as: Chapter One explored why more people are becoming ill: “My people perish for a lack of knowledge.”

“Chapter Two: Focuses on common diseases in Nigeria and their natural treatments.

Chapter Three describes the remarkable properties of local spices and herbs. Chapter Four discusses herbal blood tonics for sickle cell and anaemic conditions.Chapter Five addresses microbial and viral infections, providing herbal antibiotics for diseases like HIV, measles, and chickenpox.

Also, Chapter Six covered diabetes and natural cures. Chapter Seven Identified local plants beneficial for hemorrhoids and piles while chapter eight titled “Foods of Love,” tackles rising infertility rates and declining libido in young men and women.