Experiences of Patients on Natural Herbal Treatments for Diabetes Mellitus at the Diabetes Clinic in Base Hospital - Matara, Sri Lanka

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus has become a global public health issue. Natural herbal treatments for type 2 diabetes mellitus have been widely used in traditional societies but has recently become popular among western societies as well. The aim of this study was to explore the experience of type 2 patients with diabetes mellitus who are currently on natural herbal treatment. A qualitative, phenomenological design has been used. Twelve participants from both males and females, aged between 25 and 75 years, who were on medical treatment, were selected for sampling. In-depth interviews were conducted at the diabetes clinic in a selected hospital in southern Sri Lanka. The athematic analysis was conducted, and 6 themes were derived. The majority of participants (75%) were motivated to use natural herbal treatments other than oral glycemic therapy. Experiences have been identified as the most influential factors in the use of natural herbal treatments. The need for educational interventions on natural herbal treatments and to propose the integration of herbal medicine into current medical systems is recommended.