Traditional Medical Practitioners’ Knowledge and Practice in Managing HIV/AIDS in the Metekel Zone, Northwest Ethiopia: An Ethnopharmaceutical Study

Traditional medical practitioners (TMPs) play a vital role in addressing the primary healthcare needs of people living with HIV in Ethiopia. However, limited research has examined their knowledge and role in managing HIV/AIDS. This study aimed to explore the knowledge and practices of TMPs in managing HIV/AIDS and related conditions in the Metekel Zone, Northwest Ethiopia. A qualitative study design was employed, utilizing key informant interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and field observations. The data were transcribed verbatim, coded using MAXQDA 2020, and analyzed thematically. Medicinal plants collected during the study were authenticated at the National Herbarium, Addis Ababa University. In total, 32 in-depth interviews and four FGDs were conducted. All the FGD participants and 30 out of the 32 TMPs were male. Most were elderly, with a median age of 50.5 years, married (96.9%), and working as part-time healers (87.5%). Four key themes emerged regarding the perceived causes of HIV/AIDS: (1) limited biomedical understanding, (2) alignment with scientific views - transmission through unprotected sex, (3) divine punishment for infidelity, and (4) supernatural causes such as the influence of evil forces. TMPs reported the use of 34 plant species to treat HIV-related conditions, primarily utilizing leaves and roots.While their knowledge varied, ranging from biomedical to spiritual interpretations, TMPs actively provide care using traditional remedies. Strengthening community awareness, providing targeted training for TMPs, and promoting collaboration and integration between traditional and biomedical practices are essential steps toward enhancing patient care in the region.