Kenyans have been warned against being duped by unscrupulous herbalists who claim to have the cure for cancer.

Dr Ancent Kituku who is also a cancer expert and researcher, said it was worrying that some herbalists in some parts of the country are advertising their drugs as miracle cures for cancer yet they might not be effective and have not been approved by the relevant authorities.

"There is no scientific evidence of which herbal medicine works against cancer and Kenyans should not try it because it could do harm to them. It is possible some herbal drugs can treat cancer, but they need to be tested scientifically first to know the active ingredients, mechanism of action, adverse effects, side effects, what cancer it can treat, the dosage, and routine of administration among many others," Dr Kituku said.

The expert also said there is need for collaboration between herbalists and research institutions like the Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kemri) and medical schools to research on these herbal medicines and have those that work patented.

He appealed to herbalists to work closely with scientists in the country to ensure that their drugs are tested and certified before they could dispense to patients.

Dr Kituku, who is also a former Machakos County Health Executive, said it was dangerous to consume concoctions that are yet to be proved safe and effective.

He said cancer is a diverse disease and different types of drugs are required to treat different types of cancers.

“Unless evidence can be provided by scientists, it would be reckless to take unknown herbal medicine to cure the disease,” he said.

He spoke while addressing residents of Kawethei in Kangundo Sub-County during a villagers' forum.

“Alternative and complementary medicine is an emerging field of medicine which needs to be nurtured and regulated well as part of Universal Health Care (UHC),” he added.

His call came as several herbalists in Ukambani region have in the recent past claimed to have discovered herbal remedies for the cancer disease.