Nigerians

Nigerians dump toothpastes turn to chewing sticks as economic hardship bites harder

In recent months, the soaring cost of basic commodities, including toothpaste, has forced many Nigerians to revert to traditional practices, such as using chewing sticks to maintain oral hygiene.

With toothpaste prices skyrocketing, families across the country are turning to more affordable alternatives to manage their finances amidst the harsh economic conditions.

Chewing sticks, which have long been used in Nigeria for their medicinal and antibacterial properties, are making a comeback.

For many families, the price of toothpaste, which can now exceed N5,000 for a supply that lasts less than two weeks, has become a luxury they can no longer afford.

As a result, people like Mr. Vincent Osamese and Miss Adunni Hungbo have reverted to using chewing sticks, citing the financial relief it provides.

Osamese, a photographer, shared his experience with Vanguard: “A few months ago, I introduced the use of a chewing stick in my house when I realized I was spending N4,000 on toothpaste in just three weeks.

“My children use toothpaste like water, and my wife initially objected, but after experiencing the cost firsthand, she switched to chewing sticks herself.”

Similarly, Hungbo, a trader, noted how the sudden increase in toothpaste prices led her to find an alternative.

“The toothpaste I used to buy for N1,500 was now N2,000. I couldn’t afford it, so I switched to a chewing stick for N100, and it’s been working fine for me,” she said.

As Nigeria’s inflation and economic struggles persist, more families are looking for ways to cut costs.

Mr. Fehintola Ademide, a plumber, stated: “With rising fuel prices and the general cost of living, it’s becoming impossible to afford basic things.

“Toothpaste is just one of many items affected. I’ve switched to chewing sticks, and my wife has introduced powder paste for the children.”

Chewing sticks, derived from plants with medicinal properties such as Garcinia kola and Anogeissus leiocarpus, have been proven to have significant antibacterial activity.

According to research by the National Library of Medicine, these sticks are effective against various bacteria, including those associated with dental diseases.

For families like Maureen Agu’s, chewing sticks have become a practical and affordable solution.

“Myself and my two grown children now use chewing sticks, and I’ve introduced powder paste for my younger kids. We all have to cut costs wherever we can,” she said.

This shift toward traditional methods of oral care reflects the larger economic pressures facing Nigerians today.

As costs continue to rise, many are being forced to adapt to practices to save cost and survive the harsh economic conditions in the country.