Positive Health Online

Abstract

HARNACK and colleagues, Division of Epidemiology, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis 55454, USA, harnack@epivax.epi.umn.edu, documented the usage of herbal products among adults in a large metropolitan area (Minneapolis/St. Paul).

Background

Methodology

752 people aged 18+ years residing in the Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota, metropolitan area were randomly selected from Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Service Division data tapes. Surveys were mailed to eligible participants (n=580) between June and August 1999, to determine the use of any herb; and the use, rationale for use, perceived efficacy and source of product information of 13 specific herbs.

Results

376 of the 580 subjects (65%) returned completed surveys. 230 (61.2%) reported having used a herb during the past 12 months . Prevalence of use of specific herbs ranged from 30.9% for ginseng to 3.0% for milk thistle . The most common reasons for using a herb varied with the type of herb; for 5 herbs, the most common reason for use was 'to promote general health/wellbeing' . For 11 of the 13 specific herbs, less than 60% of those who used the herb rated it as 'effective' or 'very effective' . Among subjects taking 9 of the 13 specific herbs, the main sources of product information were family, friends and written materials.

Conclusion

Herbs are frequently used to treat or prevent a range of health problems, and people who use herbal products appear to rely mainly on family and friends for information.

References

Harnack LJ et al. Prevalence of use of herbal products by adults in the Minneapolis/St Paul, Minn, Metropolitan area. Mayo Clinic Proceedings 76 (7): 688-94. Jul 2001.