Ghanaian Herbal Mixtures (Zest, COA Plus, Gifas, Surety, Hydan PS): What to Know Before You Buy

Herbal medicine is part of everyday life in Ghana. Many families keep a bottle of herbal mixture at home for general wellness, energy or “cleansing”. Used wisely, traditional products can be part of a healthy lifestyle. Used carelessly, they can delay proper treatment or cause harm. Here is how to buy and use them safely.

Herbal mixtures in our shop

These are traditional herbal food supplements. Each is supplied in sealed original packaging. Always read the label for ingredients, directions and the FDA Ghana registration number.

1. Check FDA Ghana registration

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA Ghana) registers herbal medicines and food supplements that meet its safety and quality requirements. Before buying:

• Look for the FDA registration number on the label.
• Check the batch number and expiry date.
• Make sure the seal is intact and the packaging looks original.
• Buy from trusted sellers, not roadside vans or market loudspeakers promising miracle cures.

2. Be wary of “cure-all” claims

A product that claims to cure malaria, typhoid, diabetes, hypertension, infections, infertility and “weak erection” all in one bottle is a red flag. Herbal food supplements may support general wellbeing, but they should not be used to treat serious illnesses.

3. Don’t replace medical treatment

• Fever: get tested for malaria and typhoid first. Delaying malaria treatment can be fatal.
• Diabetes, hypertension, HIV, kidney disease: keep taking your prescribed medicine. Never stop it for a herbal mixture.
• Infections: many need proper antibiotics or antivirals from a health facility.

4. Watch for interactions and side effects

• Some herbs can affect blood sugar, blood pressure, bleeding, the liver or the kidneys.
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every herbal product you take.
• Stop and seek care if you notice yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, severe diarrhoea, rash, swelling, or reduced urine.

5. Who should be extra careful

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women
• Children (use only products and doses labelled for children)
• People with liver or kidney disease
• People on regular medication, especially blood thinners, diabetes and blood pressure medicines

6. Follow the label

Shake well, use the stated dose, don’t mix several herbal products at once, and don’t take them for longer than directed. More is not better.

Related guides

• How to boost your immune system naturally
• Piles (kooko) and gut health
• Waist pain in Ghana

Frequently asked questions

Are Ghanaian herbal mixtures safe?

FDA-registered products used as directed are generally considered acceptable for healthy adults. Safety depends on the product, the dose and your health. Ask a health professional if you have a medical condition.

How do I know if a herbal medicine is FDA approved?

Look for the FDA Ghana registration number on the label, and check it with FDA Ghana if you are unsure.

Can I take herbal mixtures with hospital medicine?

Some combinations can interact. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist what herbal products you use.

Can herbal mixtures cure infections?

Do not rely on herbal mixtures to treat infections. Get tested and treated at a health facility.

Health disclaimer: This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice. Herbal food supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Seek medical care for illness.