Renson Mwakandana
Tanzania’s health officials have outlawed the use of Hensha, a well-known traditional herbal remedy that was promoted as enhancing male sexual performance.
Prof. Hamisi Malebo, head of the Traditional and Alternative Health Practice Council, stated that recent research led to the decision to outlaw it.
He said that analysis of the natural component in a lab revealed sildenafil, more commonly known as Viagra, was present. He said that Hensha was dangerous and that its manufacturer disregarded council rules.
Typically, the bark, roots, and leaves of an East African tree called a ‘Mkongo’ are combined to create the herbal powder. Other manufacturers sell it under various brand names. Hensha’s manufacturers have been instructed to remove it off the market right away.
Promotion of conventional medications, herbal remedies, or alternative medications without “having the registration and certification of the council is an offense,” according to Prof. Malebo.
Tanzania promotes the use of conventional medicine and in 2020 authorized the market sale and usage of five conventional medicines to improve sexual function.
