Exploration of the Effectiveness and Mechanisms of Action of Natural Compounds in Disease Management: A Phenomenological Study of the Experience of Herbal Medicine Users in the Community
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Abstract
The use of herbal medicine has gained increasing popularity as an alternative or complementary treatment to conventional pharmaceuticals, particularly in managing chronic diseases. However, despite its widespread use, there remains a significant gap in understanding the biological mechanisms, efficacy, and safety of herbal remedies. This study addresses this gap by exploring the subjective experiences of herbal medicine users, focusing on their perceptions of its effectiveness, safety, and potential interactions with conventional medications. By employing a phenomenological approach, this study captures the nuanced and subjective lived experiences of participants, allowing for a deeper understanding of their perceptions and personal interactions with herbal medicine. Using a phenomenological approach, this research delves into the lived experiences of 10-15 participants who have used herbal medicines for at least three months. The findings reveal that while participants generally perceive herbal medicine as effective and safe, they lack a clear understanding of its mechanisms of action and potential interactions with other medications. These findings underscore the importance of designing educational interventions and public awareness campaigns to address knowledge gaps, particularly regarding the pharmacokinetics and safety profiles of herbal medicines.. The study contributes to the growing body of knowledge in herbal medicine use and calls for further research to explore the clinical and long-term effects of herbal remedies.
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