Approaches of Pharmacists and Herbalists Towards Herbal Products During the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study in Sakarya Province of Türkiye

Background and Aims: During the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, alongside conventional treatments, public interest in natural products markedly increased. Herbal products became popular for their perceived immune-boosting and symptom-relieving effects, leading to higher demand in both pharmacies and herbalist shops. This study aimed to identify the most commonly recommended or requested herbal products in Sakarya (Türkiye) and evaluate pharmacists’ and herbalists’ knowledge, information sources, and intended uses.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted via face-to-face surveys with 35 pharmacists and 8 herbalists in Sakarya. The questionnaire included categorical and binary (yes/no) variables on herbal product use, perceived efficacy, and information sources. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages), chi-square (χ²), and Fisher’s exact tests. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.Results: The most recommended herbal products by pharmacists were Sambucus nigra L. (74.3%), Curcuma longa L. (60%), and Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench (51.4%). Among herbalists, pine cone paste was the most preferred (87.5%). A statistically significant difference was found between the groups regarding their information sources (p = 0.015).Conclusion: The study shows a marked increase in herbal product demand during the COVID-19 pandemic in both pharmacies and herbalist shops. Frequently recommended herbs shared similar pharmacological effects, indicating that their functions influenced public preference. These findings highlight the pharmacist’s key role in ensuring safe and effective herbal product use within public health strategies.