Traditional Medicine Expert Shares Ancient Remedies for Snakebites

Traditional Medicine Expert Shares Ancient Remedies for Snakebites 

Abuja — In the wake of the snakebite-related death of 26-year-old singer Ifunanya Nwangene, a leading traditional medicine expert has revealed ancient remedies that have been used for centuries to counter snake venom.

Dr. Kingsley Nnalue, Director of Research and Development at the Department of Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, told THE WHISTLER that immediate action is critical when a snakebite occurs. He advised that victims remain calm to slow the spread of venom.

Dr. Nnalue highlighted pawpaw leaves and cashew tree bark as natural anti-venom remedies historically used in parts of Enugu State, particularly in Nsukka. “You can chew pawpaw leaves and swallow the liquid. There is also cashew tree bark. People use a knife to get the bark and chew it. The liquid has the ability to neutralise the venom,” he explained.

READ ALSO:

• S’Eagles Goalkeeper Nwabali Departs Chippa United, Shares Emotional Farewell
• Nigeria’s Political Landscape Expands: INEC Registers Two New Parties
• Kaduna Governor Confirms Release of 82 Abducted Churchgoers in Kurmin Wali

He also shared insights into why snakes enter homes, noting that they often follow prey such as frogs and rats. To prevent encounters, Dr. Nnalue recommended placing bitter kola (Akuinu) and garlic around houses, while keeping compounds clean, free of bushes, debris, or open soak-away pits.

Emphasizing the importance of traditional medicine, Dr. Nnalue cited the World Health Organization’s African Traditional Medicine Day on August 30 and called for further research to unlock nature’s potential antidotes. “Our forefathers lived long because of green leaves and natural remedies. Synthetic medicines often have side effects. Traditional medicines are holistic, healing the body, soul, and spirit. The world is coming back to that,” he said.

Dr. Nnalue’s advice comes amid growing awareness of snakebite risks in Nigeria, urging people to combine caution, clean living environments, and age-old remedies to protect themselves and their families.

Traditional Medicine Expert Shares Ancient Remedies for Snakebites