Abstract

ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND CONSUMPTION PATTERNS OF GARLIC AND THE USE OF PHYTOTHERAPY/AROMATHERAPY IN TREATMENT OF DISEASES IN TOGO

Banfitebiyi Gambogou*, Raouf T. Mensah, Bouraïma Djeri, Messanh D. Kangni, Simplice D. Karou and Yaovi A. Ameyapoh

Abstract

Purpose: The objective is to study the garlic consumption by the population with the possible impact of herbal medicine and aromatherapy on the health of consumers. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted from June to July 2018 among people aged 20 to 50 years and over. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire and transfer via network. Participants were surveyed about their knowledge and consumption habits of garlic, other medicine herbal and their knowledge of phytotherapy/aromatherapy. Results: It was made on a panel of 430 people with 57% of Women. Regarding the frequency of intake and the method of consumption, 98.7% consume garlic, mostly in the form of raw garlic 29% and cooked garlic 55%, at varying frequencies ranging from one to four times a month, up to daily consumption. The amount is usually one pod per shot. 80% of respondents believe that garlic has health benefits. In the case of phytotherapy/aromatherapy, 51% of respondents use herbal medicine and say it is benefit. In addition, more than 60% of respondents think it would be beneficial to develop herbal medicine. Conclusion: garlic and other medical herbal are well known and consumed by people in Togo. Data on actual food intake is useful to public health. It is important to inform the public at large of the recognized benefits of phytotherapy/aromatherapy that will provide solutions to their health problems.

Keywords: Garlic, herbal medicine, benefits, consumption, Togo.