By Karen James
In a bid to regulate and monitor the practice of herbal medicine in Anambra State, a bill for a law to establish the Anambra State Herbal Practice Regulations Agency has passed its second reading at the Anambra State House of Assembly. Hon. Tony Muobike, the member representing Aguata two constituency and sponsor of the bill, highlighted the need for a law to oversee the herbal practice in the state.
Hon. Muobike, who chairs the House Committee on Health, emphasized the lack of proper labeling and quantity specifications on herbal drugs. He expressed concern about the belief of consumers in whatever herbalists tell them, which often leads to serious health consequences. The bill aims to create a code of conduct and regulations to address these issues.
“The consequences of this situation are grave, with lives being lost and an increase in kidney and liver damages,” Hon. Muobike stated. “This bill aims to provide a legal framework for the production, manufacturing, labeling, and delivery of herbal medicine.”.
Furthermore, Hon. Muobike emphasized that the bill is intended to enable the state government to prosecute individuals who are practicing herbal medicine without the necessary qualifications. It will also establish a database of herbal practitioners, as well as promote research and training in the field.
Support for the bill was expressed by several lawmakers, including Hon. Emma Nwafor, Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme, Hon. Nobel Igwe, Hon. Ejike Okechukwu, Hon. Jude Akpua, Hon. Golden Iloh, and Hon. Chidiebere Ibemeka. They stressed the importance of having regulations in place to prevent abuse and address the increasing cases of organ failures.
Rt Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, the Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, referred the bill to a joint Committee on Health and Judiciary and Justice. The communities were urged to submit their feedback within two weeks for consideration.
The lawmakers adjourned the plenary and will reconvene on Thursday, August 15th to further discuss the bill. With its passing, the Anambra State Herbal Practice Law aims to bring about better regulation and standardization in the field of herbal medicine, ultimately ensuring the safety and well-being of the people of Anambra.
