The Use of Herbal Health Products and Home-Based Remedies for Protection Against Covid-19

Abstract

Natural medicinal products and home-based remedies have been in use for centuries by people across the world. Tradition, belief, cultural practice, and previous experience are associated with the use of herbal products. The trend is observed to be on the increase since covid-19 Pandemic hit the global stage. In the early days of the Pandemic, people protected themselves by practicing measures that would safeguard them from getting infected with the deadly virus. This study evaluated prevalence, risks, harms, benefits, and other issues associated with using herbs and home-based remedies to prevent and treat Covid-19. It highlights various measures of prevention and treatment practiced by employees and customers of a Regional Corporation by capturing the demographic characteristics, reasons, and associated factors for using alternative medical products. A descriptive cross-sectional survey in a hybrid online was carried out from February 2022 to April 2022. Data of independent and dependent variables was collected using a well-structured hybrid (online and paper and pencil) questionnaire. Prevalence of steam inhalation was 51%, essential oils, including menthol crystal vapour inhalation, was 61%, herbal supplements was 20.6%, and natural health products was 100% (n = 286). Non-allopathic medicinal products, home-based remedies, and other preventive health measures were on the increase in prevalence during covid-19 Pandemic. Large studies are required to assess the efficacy and safety of herbal supplements and home-based remedies to protect users from unnecessary dangers inherent in their use. Keywords: Covid-19 pandemic, Herbal health supplements, Home-based remedies, Infection, Prevalence, Natural products, Regional corporation.