Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude regarding Traditional Herbal Medicine among Diabetes Patients

Farrah Shafeera Ibrahim; Siti Solehah Nor Rizan; Naleena Devi Muniandy; Siti Nur Ismalina Isa

doi:10.21834/e-bpj.v10iSI35.7500

Authors

Farrah Shafeera Ibrahim Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Health Science, Universiti Teknologi MARA Selangor, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300 Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Siti Solehah Nor Rizan Centre of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Science, Universiti Teknologi MARA Selangor, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300 Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Naleena Devi Muniandy Centre of Dietetics Study, Faculty of Health Science, Universiti Teknologi MARA Selangor, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300 Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Siti Nur Ismalina Isa Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Health Science, Universiti Teknologi MARA Selangor, Puncak Alam Campus, 42300 Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v10iSI35.7500

Keywords:

Traditional herbal medicine, Diabetes, Knowledge, Attitude

Abstract

The general population widely use herbal remedies for blood glucose control. This study examines diabetes patients' knowledge and attitudes towards traditional herbal medicine in Klang Valley. The survey had 391 responses: 58.8% female, 41.2% male. About 91% used herbs, mainly olive oil/leaves (42.2%), cinnamon (17.4%), and garlic (13.8%). Herbs were used primarily for supplementary benefits (47.3%) and affordability/accessibility (19.7%). Despite widespread use, 84.7% of patients admitted to using herbs with their diabetic medicines. Most participants have moderate knowledge and attitudes towards herbal therapy for diabetes. Diabetic Education for the public should include instruction on safe usage of herbal remedies.

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