Assessment of packaging, labelling, and physicochemical quality of anti-typhoid herbal medicines in the Kumasi metropolis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.38159/gpj.x70mw426Keywords:
Herbal drugs, Anti-typhoid, Labelling compliance, Quality control, RegulationAbstract
Background: Many Ghanaians depend on herbal remedies to treat typhoid, a serious infection caused by Salmonella typhi, which remains highly prevalent in Ghana. This study aimed to assess the labelling, packaging and some physicochemical characteristics of herbal medicines marketed for typhoid in Kumasi Metropolis.
Methods: A market survey of the products was carried out at purposively selected pharmacies, OTC outlets, and herbal shops in the Kumasi Metropolis (Adum and Oforikrom). Ten liquid products (P1–P10) were selected according to strict inclusion and exclusion criteria and visually inspected. For brands present at multiple locations, outlets were selected using simple random sampling. Additionally, the pH, extract weight per dose (EWD), and relative density of each sample were measured and analysed using principal component analysis.
Results: Individual products contained between two herbs (P-2, P-3, P-6) and up to twelve different herbs (P-9). A significant proportion of the products (n = 7) lacked package inserts and secondary packaging. Eight (8) products lacked accompanying dosing devices, while all the products included the manufacturer’s address on the primary packaging. Other indications noted on packaging included abdominal pains (18.18%), appetite loss (9.10%), malaria (45%), jaundice (18.18%), and peptic ulcer (9.10%). The products exhibited a relative density range of 0.9998 to 1.006, with pH values between 5.0 and 7.02. The EWD varied from 0.05 g (P-3) to 0.96 g (P7).
Conclusion: Most products had intact primary packaging and contained basic identification and traceability information; however, important deficiencies were identified in dosing information, patient-use information, and packaging-related requirements. Nevertheless, regulatory authorities should conduct routine inspections of marketed products to ensure herbal products remain safe for consumption.
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Data Availability Statement
The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Prince George Acquah Jnr, Mariam El Boakye-Gyasi, Nana Yaa Pokuaa Kwarteng, Abigail Afi Okutu, Frederick William Akuffo Owusu, Osei-Asibey Antwi (Author)
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