Causative Factors in Using Medicinal Plants among Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes is a global problem, and most of people suffering from it are faced with problems caused by it. The use of medicinal plants is increasing among type 2 diabetic patients. Reasons and factors leading to the use of these plants have not yet been fully known. Thus, the present study aims to identify experiences of patients who use medicinal plants to discover factors determining the use of them.The present qualitative study was conducted using a content analysis approach.Methods: This qualitative study was conducted from April 2020 to May 2020 in Yazd City located in Central Iran. The data were collected by conducting in-depth unstructured interviews with 16 type 2 diabetic patients. Convenience sampling was used for selecting participants. In addition, data collection and analysis were conducted simultaneously. To extract categories and themes, the thematic analysis method was employed using MAXQDA 10. The COREQ (consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research) checklist was employed to ensure the method of conducting the study.Results: Data analysis showed that factors determining the use of medicinal plants fell into six categories. These categories included beliefs about medicinal plants, psychological factors, accessibility and economic barriers, patients' knowledge and awareness, pressure imposed by the society, and the role of family culture.Conclusion: It is essential to promote patients’ information and skills of the proper use of medicinal plants. For this purpose, it is recommended to provide proper counselling and referrals to specialists. Moreover, strengthening pharmaceutical infrastructures of drug storage and distribution in deprived areas could play a significant role in facilitating patient access to common drugs and preventing the use of medicinal plants.