Evaluation of the Usage of Herbal Products among University Students [Universite Ogrencilerinin Bitkisel Urunleri Kullanim Ozelliklerinin Degerlendirilmesi

Abstract

In this study, college students were aimed to evaluate the characteristics of the usage of herbal products. The study included 543 students from different faculties of Sutcu Imam University in Kahramanmaras. Questions that integrate a standard questionnaire about demographic characteristics of the participants, knowledge/attitudes and behaviors about the use of herbal products were applied. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 20.0 statistical program. 278 students were enrolled in the study. 51.2% were female and mean age was 22.7±3.4 SD (18-37). 218 of all participants (40.1%) has an initial choice of going to a doctor when they get sick. 209 of the participants (38.5%) primarily applied herbal medicines and traditional methods as the first choice. 149 students (27.4%) bought the herbal medicine from a previously known place. 283 participants (52.1%) believed that these drugs are safe. 300 of the participants (55.2%) declared that they used herbal medicine due to suggestion of the doctors, 115 students (21.2%) had seen these drugs in TV advertisements, 93 students (17.1%) had read about or informed by internet on herbal medicines. 317 students (58.4%) have used these drugs for cold, 253 (46.6%) for protection against disease and 159 (29.3%) for skin problems. 321 of the participants (67.6%) declared that they somehow benefitted from the drug and 146 (30.7%) described no benefit or harm. This study has shown that the use of herbal medicine is common among university students. The control of the unlimited usage of the herbal medicine both in our country and throughout the world is very important. Usage of herbal products and effects on the health need further scientific studies.