Evaluation of herbal products and dietary supplements use in patients with respiratory diseases applied to tertiary health institution

INTRODUCTION: In recent years, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of herbal products in various health problems has been increasing worldwide. This study aimed to determine the frequency of herbal product/dietary supplement uses, the most used products, and the factors affecting the use of these products in patients who applied to the Chest Diseases Clinic.
METHODS: This research is a descriptive survey study and was conducted in Karadeniz Technical University Farabi Hospital Chest Diseases Clinic using a face-to-face interview technique. Adult individuals with subacute respiratory complaints for more than three weeks or a diagnosis of chronic chest disease were included in the study. The questionnaire form includes questions about personal characteristics, data related to disease and treatment, use of herbal products/dietary supplements, and attitudes toward these products. 444 participants without missing data were 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 (OR=2.0, 95% Cl: 1.1-3.8, p=0.042), have a high education level (OR=2.0, 95% Cl: 1.1-3.6, p=0.018), live in urban (OR=1.8, 95% Cl: 1.1-3.0, p=0.018), and have 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.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Considering the high probability of using these products in patients with respiratory tract disease, it is important for public health that health professionals question the use of these products and provide counseling on this issue.