CONSUMPTION OF HERBAL AND DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS FOR PREGNANT AND CHILD BEARING WOMEN FOR THEMSELVES AND THEIR CHILDREN: A SURVEY AMONG THE PUBLIC IN SOUTHERN PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Introduction: Young mothers are influenced to use herbal food supplements for themselves, their children by social group pressure, perceived benefits, and perceived ease. This study targets to detect the prevalence, acceptance, predictors, and patterns of herbal medicines and dietary supplements use for pregnant and child bearing women for themselves and their children.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from December 2021 to November 2022 involving female adults (18-40y). A self-administered questionnaire was filled out by 400 mothers. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the predictors of food/herbal supplements use.

Results: A high prevalence rate of herbal medicine use (82.8%) was found in young mothers of southern Punjab. However, herbal supplements were not recommended by a physician in mostly cases. Most of the women use herbal remedies for their children in the form of almonds, walnuts and resins. Females use herbal supplements is the form of Panjeeri mostly. Pregnant ladies believe that herbs are very helpful during pregnancy. They use old ancient remedies during postpartum period.  

Conclusion: Current study indicated that Herbal supplements use among pregnant and child bearing women for themselves and their children was common among the respondents. Several issues such as the use of unreliable sources of information, myths regarding herbs and the lack of consultation with healthcare providers indicate that herbal consultants should be more preemptive in their consultative and information-providing roles regarding herbal supplement use.