**5. Safety of TCAM**

TCAM is still very much in use in modern-day Africa after hundreds of years of its existence without much reported cases of adverse effects [40]. Limited correlation between research and scientific evidence on safety and efficacy of most TCAM treatments has made them potential risks. Although practices such as acupuncture, homeopathy, and medication are low risks, adverse effects due to TCAM alone or in combination with conventional medicines have been reported [45]. These may be due to the side effects of TCAM products or drug interaction with conventional medicine. Herbs have been found to be toxic and produce herb-drug interactions due to their content of substances that have powerful pharmacological effects. Commonly observed effects include allergies, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pains, as well as dizziness, headache, and general malaise, and even death may ensue [46]. Liver and kidney problems have been observed among the chronic users of TCAM products [47]. However, the results of many evidence-based clinical trials have equally promoted credibility in TCAM.
