Table 2 Description of knowledge score items in the study sample (n = 373)
| Â | Correct answer | Correct | False / I do not know | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
n | % | n | % | ||
Functions | Â | Â | Â | Â | Â |
Echinacea is effective against cold and flu symptoms | (Correct) | 321 | 86.1% | 52 | 13.9% |
Mulethi/ Liquorice is a commonly used herb for mild to moderate sore throat and cough | (Correct) | 288 | 77.2% | 85 | 22.8% |
Garlic can lower blood lipid level | (Correct) | 321 | 86.1% | 52 | 13.9% |
Ginseng can be used safely in people with high blood pressure | (Incorrect) | 179 | 48.0% | 194 | 52.0% |
Ginkgo biloba is commonly used in people with Alzheimer’s disease | (Correct) | 290 | 77.7% | 83 | 22.3% |
Omega-3 is beneficial for patients suffering from cardiovascular disorders | (Correct) | 358 | 96.0% | 15 | 4.0% |
Vitamin B complex may delay wound healing | (Incorrect) | 205 | 55.0% | 168 | 45.0% |
Valerian should be used cautiously in patients using benzodiazepines | (Correct) | 213 | 57.1% | 160 | 42.9% |
Side Effects | Â | Â | Â | Â | Â |
Herbal medicine is natural and therefore is safe, without side effects | (Incorrect) | 209 | 56.0% | 164 | 44.0% |
Mulethi/ Liquorice may cause drug-herb interactions | (Correct) | 168 | 45.0% | 205 | 55.0% |
Long-term use of liquorice is not recommended | (Correct) | 198 | 53.1% | 175 | 46.9% |
Omega-3 can be given safely to patients taking clopidogrel | (Correct) | 250 | 67.0% | 123 | 33.0% |
Vitamin C when taken with Iron (Ferrous salt) increases its absorption | (Correct) | 290 | 77.7% | 83 | 22.3% |
Insomnia is a possible side effect when taking Ginseng | (Incorrect) | 83 | 22.3% | 290 | 77.7% |
Gingko increases risk of bleeding in patients taking Coumadin | (Correct) | 114 | 30.6% | 259 | 69.4% |
Chronic zinc supplementation is a possible risk factor for anemia | (Correct) | 114 | 30.6% | 259 | 69.4% |
St John’s wort is effective and safe for use in patients taking cyclosporine | (Incorrect) | 91 | 24.4% | 282 | 75.6% |