Integrated traditional herbal medicine in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorder: the pattern of use and the knowledge of safety among the Eastern Region Saudi population.

BACKGROUND: Herbal medicine is commonly integrated with conventional medicine in Saudi Arabia, especially for the management of digestive disorders. However, the majority of Saudis use herbal remedies without prior consultation with a physician, which raises concerns about their appropriate and safe use. The aim of this study was to assess the level of awareness among the Saudi population regarding the proper utilization and potential adverse effects of frequently used herbs for the treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia from January to March 2021. An electronic self-administered questionnaire was distributed. RESULTS: A total of 543 participants from different age groups, educational levels, and cities across Saudi Arabia completed the study questionnaire. The most commonly used herbs at home by the participants were: myrrh, parsley, black seed, chamomile, mint, anise, clove, and green tea. 57.7% of the participants perceived herbs as safer than conventional medicines; 27.3% reported that using herbal remedies over conventional medicine was a family tradition, and 21.4% used herbs because they were cheaper than conventional medicines. CONCLUSION: Herbal remedies, including myrrh, parsley, blackseed, chamomile, mint, and anise, are commonly employed for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders in Saudi Arabia. However, the knowledge level of participants regarding potential side effects and drug-herb interactions was found to be deficient. As such, there is a pressing need for educational campaigns and community awareness programs to elucidate the proper usage of herbal remedies and to caution against their potential adverse effects.

Assessment of community awareness of the possible relationship between black tea consumption and iron deficiency anemia.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Iron deficiency anemia is a public health problem affecting both developing and developed countries, with devastating consequences on health as well as social and economic development. However, there are scarce data regarding community awareness in Saudi Arabia; therefore, this study was conducted to assess the awareness of the community about the relationship between black tea consumption and iron deficiency anemia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, with 231 participants from Al-Ahsa region agreeing to participate voluntarily. The study instrument gathered sociodemographic data on the participants and asked them awareness-related questions. RESULTS: None of the study participants was completely aware of iron-rich foods, although the majority of the participants had a decent awareness level. Statistically significant differences were found between age, educational level, and type, the number of cups of black tea consumed per day, and awareness of the relationship between black tea consumption and iron deficiency anemia. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Based on the finding that the majority of the participants had moderate awareness, education and awareness-raising strategies should be planned and offered to improve nutritional habits and to encourage refraining from the consumption of food and drinks that hinder iron bioavailability.