Exploring the use of complementary and alternative medicine for influenza management: a cross-sectional study from...

Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAM) are commonly used worldwide to prevent and manage common colds and influenza-like illnesses, but data on their use specifically for influenza among adults in Palestine are limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CAM use among Palestinians for flu management, to identify commonly used CAM products, and the sources promoting them during flu season, and to explore the reasons for their use. A cross-sectional survey was carried out among adults aged 18 years and older. The questionnaire covered socio-demographic variables, clinical characteristics, health status, types and frequency of CAM used, patients' sources of information, causes of their usage, attitudes, and beliefs. The data analysis included descriptive and regression analyses to explore the connections between patient sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and CAM usage. All analyses were conducted using R software. Among 363 participants, 34(9.4%) got the flu vaccine, and 274 (75%) used at least one method of CAM for managing influenza. The majority of participants 239 (65%) used at least one herb for flu management, with Sage being the most commonly reported herb 162(44.8%), followed by chamomile (40.9%) and anise 144(39.8%). Vitamin D was the most widely used biologically-based therapy for flu management (31.8%). Additionally, 230 (63.4%) used CAM to enhance their immune system. Participants primarily obtained information about CAM from friends and family (247, 67.7%) and the Internet (233, 64.2%). Moreover, 203 (56%) perceived the effectiveness of CAM compared to conventional medicine to vary depending on the specific health condition or situation. In multivariable analysis, participants who preferred pharmaceutical drugs (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.17-0.73, p = 0.005) and those who used neither CAM nor pharmaceutical drugs (OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.08-0.44, p < 0.001) were significantly less likely to report CAM use compared with those who reported using both. CAM was commonly used to prevent and treat flu in Palestine. Understanding the degree to which people of Palestine rely on CAM products as a remedy for treatment and/or prevention of influenza is critical for the public, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. The study's results underscore important public health implications, including the need for evidence-based education on the safe use of CAM and awareness of potential herb-drug interactions. Developing clear guidance for integrating CAM safely into influenza management alongside routine medical care may support better health outcomes and inform national health policies.