Assessing the Role of Medicinal Plants in Combating Respiratory Diseases: A Questionnaire Based Survey in Kohat, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: The impact of respiratory disorders on healthcare systems is still a major problem for global health. Despite the fact that modern medicine has made great strides in treating these ailments, complementary and alternative ways of managing respiratory health are gaining popularity. Objective: The main objective of this study was to assess the efficiency of medicinal plants in combating respiratory diseases in Kohat, Pakistan. Methodology: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted at DHQ Teaching Hospital Kohat from April 2022 to March 2023. The study included 82 patients diagnosed with respiratory disorders, who provided informed consent to participate. Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages, were utilized to characterize the participant's demographic characteristics and consumption habits for medicinal plants. Results: Among the 82 patients, a greater number of participants (n=57; 69.51%) reported utilizing medicinal herbs to treat respiratory conditions. Liquorice (n=13; 23%) was the most often utilized medicinal plant, followed by Puthkanda (n=11; 19%) and Ginger (n=9 ;16%). The leaves (n=19; 34%), fruits (n=15; 26%), and stem (n=12; 21%) were the most often used plant components, while decoction (n=14; 25%) and extract (n=13; 23%) were the favored preparation techniques. More than one-third of patients (n=46; 80.70%) suggested using medicinal plants to treat respiratory conditions. Conclusion: The survey reveals significant utilization of medicinal plants for managing respiratory diseases in Kohat, Pakistan, emphasizing their potential as complementary approaches to conventional treatments. Integrating traditional knowledge into modern healthcare practices could lead to improved respiratory health outcomes and overall well-being.