Kidney specialists have raised serious concerns about the rising use of unapproved herbal products and dietary supplements by individuals trying to treat kidney-related illnesses. According to these health professionals, relying on these unverified substances may not only be ineffective but could also severely worsen the patient’s condition.

Harmful Substances Hidden in “Natural” Products

Medical professionals revealed that many of these so-called natural cures contain dangerous components that are not listed on the label. These ingredients often include strong painkillers, alcohol-based chemicals, and other toxic compounds. Prolonged use of such products, especially by people already dealing with kidney issues, can lead to permanent damage to the kidneys and other organs such as the liver.

Dr. Amisu Muhmini, a kidney disease consultant at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), explained that many of these products are marketed as health boosters or detoxifiers but in reality, pose serious health threats. He warned, “We simply cannot trust what’s in these mixtures. People take them daily without knowing that continued use may lead to kidney and liver complications.”

He added that many of these harmful ingredients are masked under vague or misleading labels, and because there is no regulatory oversight, the public is left exposed to serious health risks.

Most Supplements Never Undergo Medical Testing

Unlike prescription medications, which must go through several stages of clinical evaluation, most dietary supplements and herbal remedies are not required to undergo safety trials. Dr. Theophillus Umeizudike, also a Consultant Nephrologist at LASUTH, emphasized the importance of scientific testing in medicine.

He broke down the drug development process, stating, “New medications start with animal testing, move on to small trials with healthy individuals, then progress to patient groups, and finally large-scale studies. This process ensures both safety and effectiveness.”

Umeizudike pointed out that most supplements on the market skip these critical steps entirely. Instead, they are promoted based on word-of-mouth success stories or social media endorsements—none of which qualify as scientific proof.

Social Media Advice Endangering Public Health

The doctors also highlighted how misinformation on social platforms is misleading people into trying unverified remedies. Many users trust health claims made by influencers or anonymous online sources, unaware of the potential dangers these products carry.

“These social media posts can be extremely harmful,” said Dr. Muhmini. “We’ve seen artisans, transport workers, and even young adults taking these unknown substances believing they boost strength or ease pain. Sadly, many end up developing serious kidney conditions that are difficult or impossible to treat.”

He urged people to be cautious and avoid following unverified health advice online, especially when dealing with chronic diseases like kidney failure.

No Proven Cure for Kidney Disease in Herbal Medicine

Both doctors made it clear that no herbal remedy has ever been scientifically proven to reverse kidney damage. In fact, relying on untested herbal products can cause the disease to progress faster.

“Some patients come in thinking that a herbal detox will clean out their kidneys or fix the damage. But that’s simply not true,” said Dr. Umeizudike. “There is zero scientific evidence to support those claims, and unfortunately, many patients worsen their condition by delaying proper treatment.”

He advised patients to trust only medically approved treatments and to always consult healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis and care.

Imported Supplements Are Not Always Safe

Another issue raised by the nephrologists is the misplaced trust many Nigerians place in imported supplements. Because these products come from countries like the UK, USA, or Canada, patients often assume they are safe. However, Dr. Umeizudike cautioned against this assumption.

“We often meet patients who bring in supplements sent by family members abroad. They believe these products are safer because they’re foreign,” he said. “But unless those products have been tested and approved by trusted health bodies, they are no better than the ones made locally.”

He emphasized the need for people to stick to well-researched treatments backed by data from clinical trials carried out in multiple regions, including Africa.

Call for Regulation and Public Awareness

Both physicians called on authorities to increase oversight of the supplement industry and launch nationwide education campaigns. They urged Nigerians to ask questions, demand evidence, and avoid taking substances that haven’t been tested or approved by health regulators.

“There needs to be more awareness. People must understand that not all that is labeled ‘natural’ is safe,” Dr. Muhmini said. “The best way to protect your kidneys is through scientifically proven treatment, not guesswork or online trends.”

In summary, the doctors advised individuals living with kidney disease to avoid experimenting with herbal products. Instead, they should seek medical advice, stick to prescribed medications, and make lifestyle adjustments under the guidance of trained professionals.