Plants used during pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and infant healthcare in Palestine
Ali-Shtayeh, M.S.; Jamous, R.M.; Jamous, R.M.
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice 21(2): 84-93
2015
ISSN/ISBN: 1873-6947 PMID: 25900613 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2015.03.004Document Number: 641160
This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and the factors related to the use of herbs by women during pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and for infant healthcare. The study also aims to identify the herbs therapeutic uses and preparation. To date, no previous studies have investigated this prevalence in Palestine. A cross-sectional survey of women of different child-bearing age group inhabiting different locations in Palestine was carried out by means of a semi-structured questionnaire. A total of 372 women were interviewed. Of the participants 72.3% reported using herbs at different pregnancy stages and for infant healthcare. The most common herbal products used in this study at different stages of pregnancy were Pimpinella anisum, Salvia fruticosa, Matricaria aurea, and Mentha spicata. This study revealed that there is an appreciable prevalence of herbal use among pregnant women at different pregnancy stages and for infant healthcare in Palestine.