Volume 7 Number 1 2023
Cross-Sectional Analysis Demonstrates Socio-Demographic Determinants and Perceived Effectiveness of Herbal Medicine Use in Chronic Illnesses
Nazia Mahmud Badhon 1*
Journal of Angiotherapy 7 (2) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/angiotherapy.7210368
Submitted: 29 March 2023 Revised: 20 June 2023 Published: 22 June 2023
Abstract
Background: Herbal medicine remains an essential component of healthcare worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Bangladesh, where chronic diseases are rising steadily. Despite its widespread use, little is known about how adults with chronic illnesses in Bangladesh utilize herbal medicine, the factors influencing their choices, and their perceptions of its effectiveness. This study aimed to explore these aspects to guide evidence-based healthcare policy and potential integration of herbal remedies into mainstream care.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Dhaka city from January to December 2024, enrolling 200 adults diagnosed with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, kidney disorders, and cancer. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling and interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire to capture socio-demographic information, disease profiles, and herbal medicine practices. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics, while chi-square tests and multinomial logistic regression identified factors associated with herbal medicine use.
Results: Among participants, 8.3% relied solely on herbal medicine, while 5.2% combined it with modern treatments. Homeopathy (69%), herbal remedies (23%), and Ayurveda (9%) were the most frequently used modalities. Use of herbal medicine was significantly associated with gender, education, income, occupation, and residence. Notably, rural residents were nearly seven times more likely to use herbal medicine than urban residents (AOR = 6.812; 95% CI: 2.678–17.423, p < 0.001). Perceptions of effectiveness varied: 25% of users reported it as effective, 37.5% as somewhat effective, and 37.5% as ineffective.
Conclusion: Herbal medicine continues to be a vital healthcare resource in Bangladesh, especially among rural and lower-income populations. While culturally accepted and affordable, variable perceived effectiveness underscores the need for clinical validation, standardization, and integration with conventional healthcare. Policymakers should prioritize regulatory measures, clinical trials, and guided implementation to maximize safe and effective use.
Keywords: Herbal medicine, chronic illness, Bangladesh, complementary and alternative medicine, homeopathy, Ayurveda, healthcare integration
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