Utilization of traditional medicine for childhood illness and its associated factors among parents of children under five years in Karat Zuria Woreda, Konso, South Ethiopia, 2024: an explanatory sequential design

Abstract

Traditional medicine remains a primary source of healthcare in many developing countries. In Ethiopia, more than 80% of parents report using traditional remedies for their children. While these practices are culturally embedded, improper use can worsen childhood illnesses and cause complications. Despite this, the utilization of traditional medicine among children under five has not been extensively studied. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of traditional medicine use among children under five in Karat Zuria Woreda. An explanatory sequential design was conducted from April 1 to 30, 2024. 365 parents were selected through systematic random sampling in the quantitative survey, while purposive sampling guided qualitative interviews. Logistic regression analysis identified associations between independent and dependent variables, and thematic analysis was used to interpret qualitative data. Of the 365 participants, 81.6% reported using traditional medicine for their children in the past 12 months. Significant determinants included parental education (secondary and above: AOR = 0.09, 95% CI = 0.03–0.34), monthly income of 1000–2000 ETB (AOR = 0.13, 95% CI = 0.04–0.49), family size greater than six (AOR = 3.32, 95% CI = 1.23–8.93), referral by others (AOR = 3.44, 95% CI = 1.15–10.29), and parental self-use of traditional medicine (AOR = 13.80, 95% CI = 5.64–33.76). Qualitative findings highlighted reasons such as perceived inefficacy of modern medicine, accessibility of traditional remedies, long distances to health facilities, high costs, cultural and religious beliefs, and dissatisfaction with modern healthcare services. Traditional medicine use among children under five in Karat Zuria Woreda is widespread and shaped by education, income, family size, referral sources, and parental practices. Strengthening community health education, improving access to modern healthcare, and further research incorporating both parental and child characteristics are recommended to ensure safe and effective child healthcare practices.