Determinants Of Moringa Oleifera Utilization Among Hiv Positive Patients Attending Comprehensive Care Clinic At Migori County Referral Hospital, Kenya

Purpose: This is cross-sectional study to determine M. oleifera utilization among HIV positive patients attending Comprehensive Care Clinic at Migori County Referral Hospital, Kenya. Methodology: Data was collected using semi structured questionnaires. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS V.17). Frequency tables and graphs were used to present the data. Chi-square test of independence was used to identify the relationship between socio-demographic and socio-economic characteristics and the use of M. oleifera with the level of significance at 0.05. Findings: Of the 278 patients recruited into the study 75.5% used M.oleifera either as food due to its high nutritive value and ability to boost immune system or as medicine for other diseases such as ulcers, stomach upset, skin infections etc. Herbalists indicated that they used M. oleifera to treat various diseases including diabetes, high blood pressure, hypertension and arthritis. The commonly used part of the M.oleifera tree was the leaves. Relatives had marked influence on 31% of the respondents using M.oleifera. M. oleifera was commonly used in crushed (non-powder) and powdered form. The findings indicated that majority of the respondents (99%) had not experienced any side effects after using M. oleifera together with HIV drugs. A significant socio demographic factor that was associated with the use of M. oleifera was age. The findings also indicate that distance to the health facility was the main challenge faced by majority (59.8%) of the HIV patients attending comprehensive care clinics (CCC) at Migori County Referral Hospital while other challenges included drug side effects, long waiting times and delays, and stigma. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study contributes to a theoretical enhancement of the current level of knowledge on the existing literature on Moringa oleifera use among HIV positive patients. In terms of practice, the findings of the study could be utilized to develop strategies to ensure that HIV positive patients are well aware on the benefits and health implications of using herbal medicines such as M. oleifera together with conventional medicine. The study points out the need for policy development targeting regulation of traditional medicine and provision of better information.