Patient Perceptions and Clinical Outcomes of Herbal Medicine Use in Type 2 Diabetes Care in India

Background: The increasing prevalence of type-2 diabetes mellitus in India has resulted in patients resorting to herbal and traditional modes of treatment. The use of herbal modes of treatment has been increasingly shown in terms of clinical potential. However, there is a scarcity of evidence that has linked patient perception with clinical outcomes. Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the perceptions of patients regarding the use of herbal medicine and how such perceptions correlate with clinical results reported in T2DM patients in India. Methods: The methods used in the research include a mixed methods approach involving 300 patients with type 2 DM. The quantitative element was based on improvements made in the levels of fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, and HbA1c values over a period of 12 weeks. The interview technique was utilized to determine patient experiences, advantages, safety, cost-effectiveness, and difficulties associated with herbal medicine use. Results: There was significant improvement noticed for all glycemic parameters at the end of 12 weeks. High patient satisfaction rates, perceived safety, belief in the natural source of herbal drugs and cost-effectiveness were documented commonly. However, issues of dosage uniformity, varied quality of commercial products, and absence of any standardized governmental regulatory guidelines were also commonly noted. Conclusion: The use of herbal medicine in people with T2DM in India is very well accepted and well-received as there have been improved glycemic controls. The gaps in the relevant guidance need to be addressed in order to incorporate herbal medicines in the treatment of diabetes in a safe and effective manner.