Herbal Medicine Usage During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Indonesia: Trends and Determinants

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic led to increased use of herbal medicine in Indonesia, driven by its perceived efficacy in enhancing immunity. This study examines the sociodemographic factors influencing herbal medicine consumption during the pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June to July 2021 across 33 Indonesian provinces, involving 461 respondents. Key sociodemographic variables included gender, age, education, domicile, and occupation, while the dependent variable was herbal medicine consumption. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses, with significance determined by p values. Results: A total of 62.7% of respondents reported using herbal medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by standardized herbal medicine (23.2%) and phytopharmaceuticals (14.1%). Among the respondents, 66.4% were female, and 29.9% were aged 17-25. Herbal medicine consumption was significantly influenced by age (p = 0.006) and occupation (p = 0.038). Students (26.2%) and individuals on Java Island (62.7%) constituted the largest consumer groups. Key ingredients included ginger, turmeric, and lime, which are widely recognized for their antiviral and immunomodulatory properties. Conclusion: Age and occupation were identified as associated factors of herbal medicine use, emphasizing the importance of tailored public health strategies to promote traditional remedies as complementary measures. These findings highlight herbal medicine's cultural and therapeutic relevance during health crises.