Herbal Medicine Use among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in North Sudan

Aims:The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence, pattern and predictors of herbal medicine use among patients with type 2 diabetes.Study Design: Observational cross-sectional study design. Place and Duration of Study:This study was conducted in 2012 at primary health care centers (PHCCs) in Khartoum.Methodology: Data for a cross-sectional study were collected via face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires at primary health care centers (PHCCs) in Khartoum, Sudan.Results: From a total of 600 patients who responded, 58% reported the use of herbal medicine.Significant factors associated with herbal medicine use were, gender (P=0.006),education (P=0.001),duration of diabetes (P=0.005) and family income (P=0.019).Gender (P=0.001),education, duration of diabetes and place of birth (P=0.05).The most commonly used herbs were fenugreek, black seed, cinnamon and olive.The proposed motivations for using herbal medicines were ease of access, low cost and reports of a positive experience by others.Family and friends were the main source of information for most patients.About 63.8% failed to inform their doctors about using herbs, and the main