The prevalence and practices of copper sulphate use in South African traditional medicine

Abstract

Introduction: Copper (Cu) is an essential element to humans however exposure to elevated concentrations through occupational hazard and/or environmental means may be detrimental. Copper sulphate (CuSO4) is available at traditional medicine markets in South Africa and poisonings due to CuSO4-containing traditional medicines have been documented. However, to date there is no information regarding CuSO4 practices in South African traditional medicine. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of CuSO4 use in South African traditional medicine by traditional health practitioners (THPs) and to describe the uses thereof. Methods: A total of 201 THPs were enrolled from KwaZulu-Natal Province (South Africa). Information on demographic characteristics of THPs, reasons for using or not using CuSO4 as well as administration methods and age groups of recipients were collected. Results: CuSO4 for healing purposes was reported by 145 (72%) THPs. The use of CuSO4 was strongly associated with gender (p = 0.009) where the proportion of CuSO4 users was higher for female than male THPs. CuSO4 was reportedly administered to individuals of all ages, including infants and children. The main routes of administration were enema (n = 110; 76%) and oral (n = 40; 28%). The reasons provided for use are diverse and included skin rashes (n = 43; 30%), aches, pains and swelling (n = 38; 28%) as well as sexually transmitted diseases (n = 28; 19%). Conclusions: This study identified a high prevalence of THPs using CuSO4 for healing purposes. This serious public health issue needs regulatory measures and education programs to enlighten the population against harms due to CuSO4 exposure.