Herbal medicine is the new rage in Qatar. Many herbal products are in demand here due to their healing properties.
Consequently, many stores specialising in herbal medicine have popped up in the city's markets, especially at Souq Waqif. The rise in demand has been driven by increasing unhappiness with the cost of regular medicines, combined with an interest in returning to natural or organic remedies. Herbal medicines are available in Souq Waqif at prices ranging from QR10 to QR30 per kilogramme.
Some of the herbal medicines that can be picked up include silverweed, used to treat stiffening of the muscles and help blood clotting. Herbal products displayed in local markets either originate from a single plant or are mixtures prescribed for skin whitening, breast enlargement and increasing sexual prowess. Black beans are the most commonly used natural medicine as they are believed to treat a whole range of ailments.
Practitioners of herbal medicine have now come more into the mainstream. Latest research has shown the value of herbal medicines in the treatment and prevention of diseases.
Traditionally, herbal medicines existed in the form of powders or potions, but now they are available in different forms, such as teas, syrups, oils, liquid extracts, tinctures and dry extracts (pills or capsules).
Due to the growing popularity of herbal medicines, several satellite TV channels have been launched in the region to promote herbal treatment and offer viewers instant diagnoses and remedies for their ailments.
Khalil Mohamed Al Qudsi, a salesman and herbalist in Souq Waqif, said: "We receive many visitors on a daily basis seeking treatment. For instance, I prescribe rock candy to a patient suffering from a sore throat and Al Marqadoosh to treat stomach problems."
Al Qudsi said shops sell natural medications for hypertension, diabetes and sciatic nerve problems, among other diseases. "Males generally visit us seeking medicines to enhance sexual performance while women seek beauty products," said another herbalist.
The Pen
Follow us on our social media channels:
@ILQlive
@ILQlive
@ILoveQtr
ILoveQatar