Exploring the Knowledge on Herbal Medicine (HM) usage in Disease Management among People with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

Abstract

It is estimated that diabetes affects approximately 415 million people worldwide and this is expected to increase to 642 million by 2040. There are several methods used in managing diabetes which include nutritional control, taking medications, insulin injection and/or consuming herbal medicine (HM). This study explored the knowledge of herbal medicine usage among people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) in regard to diabetes management. A qualitative study was conducted among 28 diabetic patients from government clinics in Negeri Sembilan. They were interviewed face-to-face and all information about their herbal medicine consumption were analysed thematically. Findings showed that the main source of information on herbal usage were from family members, friends and/or neighbours. This study discovered that knowledge on herbal medicine among T2DM patients was greatly influenced from such sources and it is also hereditary. In addressing herbal medicine safety issues, some patients were unaware of the proper channel while others chose to accept any arising consequences without informing the healthcare authorities. This study also revealed that most of the informants were aware on the types and ways of consuming herbal medicine. Besides, patients understood that diabetes can only be controlled and cannot be cured. However, knowledge on complementary intake with modern medicine should be enlightened. Therefore, it is suggested that the healthcare provider need to update their knowledge on herbal medicines and be able to give informative insights to their patients.