Professor Raphael Nyarkotey Obu, a Naturopathic healthcare expert, is spearheading efforts to promote hibiscus (locally known as sobolo) as an “effective natural remedy” for managing high blood pressure.
Through publications and media engagements, he has cited studies demonstrating that Hibiscus can “outperform” pharmaceutical drugs for managing hypertension.
“Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants and anthocyanins, which work together to relax blood vessels, improve circulation, and lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure,” he stated in a recent article copied to Ghana News Agency.
Describing Sobolo as “an affordable alternative to traditional pharmaceutical treatments,” Prof. Obu emphasized its potential to create economic opportunities for Ghana.
He envisioned large-scale hibiscus cultivation becoming a significant driver of the country’s agricultural sector, offering farmers a profitable crop while contributing to overall economic growth.
“Sobolo’s widespread popularity could allow it to become an important export, benefiting local communities and reducing the country’s dependence on imported goods,” he noted.
In line with his vision of integrating health, agriculture, and economic development, Prof. Obu has founded a “Herbal Mall” aimed at adding value to Sobolo.
The initiative focuses on creating “evidence-based products” derived from hibiscus.
“These products target specific health issues, such as cardiovascular support, womens health, prostate health, and urinary tract infections,” he explained.
The academic and health economist aims to ensure that Sobolo becomes “a key player in natural medicine and wellness.”
For him, “Sobolo is not just as a beverage, but a versatile natural ingredient for various health solutions.”
Another key aspect of Prof. Obu’s advocacy is promoting Sobolo wine as a replacement for imported communion wine in churches across Ghana.
“As churches struggle with the rising costs of communion wine, Sobolo [could be] an affordable, sustainable, and locally sourced alternative.
“By using Sobolo wine, churches can reduce their financial burdens while supporting local farmers and businesses.
“This idea not only addresses economic concerns but also promotes the use of locally sourced products in religious practices, making Sobolo an integral part of both health and community life in Ghana,” he added.
Prof. Obu, also the General Secretary of the Ghana Alternative Medical Practitioner Association (GAMPA), thought Sobolo was as an “emerging symbol of how natural remedies can be harnessed for the benefit of public health and national development.”
He is also a member of the research advocacy team for the World Naturopathic Federation (WNF), Canada, and has contributed to the regulatory framework of naturopathy across Africa, and drafting Ghana’s first national occupational standard in naturopathy.
Prof. Obu is the first African naturopath to be called to the Bar in the Gambia.
He spearheaded the establishment of Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine and Technology, the first naturopathic medical school in Ghana.
Drawing on his expertise, Prof. Obu continues to advocate for reforms within Ghana’s Traditional Medicine community, aiming “to restore public trust in traditional and alternative medicine.”
GNA