Evaluation of Herbal Products and Dietary Supplements Use in Patients with Respiratory Diseases Applied to Tertiary Health Institution.

ABSTRACT

Objectives: In recent years, especially with the Coronavirus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the use of herbal products for various health problems has been increasing worldwide. This study aimed to determine the frequency of herbal product/dietary supplement use, the most used products, and the factors affecting the use of these products in patients who applied to the Chest Diseases Clinic. Materials and Methods: This descriptive survey study was conducted at Chest Diseases Clinic using a face-to-face interview technique. Adult individuals with subacute respiratory complaints for > 3 weeks or a diagnosis of chronic chest disease were included in the study. The questionnaire form included questions about personal characteristics, data related to disease and treatment, use of herbal products/dietary supplements, and attitudes toward these products. A total of 444 participants with all the data included in the study. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and binary logistic regression tests were used. Results: It was determined that 49.3% of the participants used herbal products/dietary supplements, and the most frequently used products were honey, linden, ginger, lemon, and carob. According to the results of the binary logistic regression test, it was determined that patients over 60 years old [odds ratio (OR)= 2.0, 95% confidence interval (Cl) 1.1-3.8, p= 0.042], those with a high education level (OR= 2.0, 95% Cl 1.1-3.6, p= 0.018), those who live in urban (OR= 1.8, 95% Cl 1.1-3.0, p= 0.018), and those with a diagnosis of post-COVID syndrome (OR= 2.7, 95%, Cl 1.3-5.5, p= 0.007) are more likely to use these products. It was determined that 57.9% of the participants used these products to relieve the symptoms of the disease. Conclusion: Considering the high probability of using these products in patients with respiratory tract disease, it is essential for public health that health professionals question the use of these products and provide counseling on this issue.