Practices, beliefs, and influencing factors of using herbal medicine in hail region, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

This cross-sectional study investigated the use of herbal medicines and associated factors among 979 participants in Saudi Arabia's Hail region from February to May 2017. Data were collected via structured interviews in public places. While belief in herbal remedies was firm across genders (94% females, 93% males), daily use was significantly higher among females (76% vs. 55%; p?0.001). Side effects, particularly diarrhea, were more common in males (14% vs. 10%; p?0.001), and 37% of females reported use during pregnancy. Significant associations were found between herbal medicine use and demographic factors, including gender, education, and income. These findings provide authentic data for Saudi authorities to develop strategies addressing traditional medicine practices and potential complications.