For an average family of seven, spending N5,000 on toothpaste that lasts just two weeks has become a daunting expense, forcing many to reconsider their priorities. As a result, the use of chewing sticks, once a common practice, is experiencing a resurgence.
Chewing sticks, derived from plants known for their medicinal properties, were traditionally valued for their effectiveness in maintaining dental hygiene. Historically, families mandated their use every morning, but the advent of commercial toothpaste overshadowed this practice.
However, as economic pressures mount, individuals like photographer Vincent Osamese have reintroduced chewing sticks into their households after finding toothpaste costs prohibitive.
Prominent varieties of chewing sticks in Nigeria include Garcinia kola, Anogeissus leiocarpus, Terminalia glaucescens, Sorindeia warneckei, and Vitex doniana. Research from the National Library of Medicine highlights their antibacterial properties, making them a viable alternative for oral care.
As Nigeria grapples with its current economic climate, traditional practices are reclaiming their place in daily life, reflecting a broader trend of adaptation and resilience among families.
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