The role of herbal medicines: a survey exploring healthcare professionals’ perceptions across the UK

Healthcare professionals (HCPs) have a key role in optimising patient care. As the use of Herbal Medicines (HM) is on the rise it is important that HCPs have knowledge of them, to help patients make informed decisions. The aim of the study was to explore UK based HCPs personal and professional views on HM.

An online questionnaire was distributed via various networks to recruit a large range of HCPs from across the UK.

A total of 1113 HCPs responses were analysed, 64% of HCPs confirmed that they regularly checked patients' use of HM as part of the clinical consultation.

Most patient queries were regarding HM efficacy and interactions with conventional medicines; however, 67% of HCPs did not know where to access such information and 45% were not sure or were unaware of any herb-drug interactions.

HCPs (87%) identified insufficient education and training on HM which made them unable to advise patients on the safe and effective use of HMs. HCPs (37.52%) who used HM for their own health found them effective (68%) the most frequently used HMs were Turmeric, St John’s wort and Echinacea. However, there was some uncertainty amongst HCPs around what herbal, homeopathic and nutritional supplements were.

HCPs have little knowledge of HM due to limited training thus lack the confidence to respond to patient queries. There is a need to therefore review the current HM training provision for HCPs and make improvements to facilitate informed consultations as HM could have a role in improving patient care.

 

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
16. November 2023