Herbal remedies use among diabetic patients in Nassyria, Iraq

Background: Despite the availability of conventional hypoglycemic medications, many diabetic patients still prefer to use herbal remedies. This study was done to estimate the prevalence of herbal remedies use among diabetic patients in Nassyria city, Iraq, and to identify the factors affecting the herb use. Subjects and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research was conducted on diabetic patients attending the diabetic center in Nassyria city, Iraq, over a 5-month period between the 1st of January and the 31st of May 2010, using a questionnaire that contained items related to diabetes and the use of herbs by diabetics. Results: The study revealed that 153 (17.3%) out of 884 respondents had utilized herbal remedies within the last year. Herb users were more likely to be highly educated, employed, type 2 diabetics, and with a shorter duration of diabetes. The peer influence was noted among 77.1% of users. The majority of them used herbs as a supportive measure to conventional medical treatment and they believed that that they are beneficial. Conclusion: A considerable number of patients with diabetes mellitus in Nassyria used herbs. Therefore, proper health information about herbal remedies should be provided by health professionals.