Associate Professor,Department of Pharmacology, Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences, Kalaburagi, Karnataka

Professor & HOD,Department of Pharmacology, Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences, Kalaburagi, Karnataka

Tutor,Department of Pharmacology, Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences, Kalaburagi, Karnataka
Herbal medicines ,Knowledge ,Herb-drug interaction ,side effects ,

As herbal therapies are increasingly being used around the world because they are perceived to be free of side effects, it is important that prescribers should be made aware of their possible harm or herb-drug interactions. In this context present study was undertaken among medical students to assess their knowledge and attitude towards the use of herbal products as medicines. Methods: A detailed questionnaire having both open and close-ended questions to assess students and interns perception, awareness of herbal medicines and herb-drug interactions was given to 150 second year students and 100 interns in a teaching medical college. Data was expressed as counts and percentages. Results: 28% of the students were aware of the fact that herbs can be used as medicines. They were most familiar with the herbs tulsi, neem, turmeric, Aloe vera, ashwagandha and ginger. 54% consider herbal medicines to be risk free, and (44%) were not aware of the fact that herbs can cause herbdrug interactions. Media and elderly family members were their most common sources of information regarding herbal medicines. Majority (72%) would prefer allopathic medicines over herbal medicines. Majority were not aware of the regulatory status of herbal medicines. Conclusions: There is a need to impart knowledge to the students about the usage of herbal products as these are frequently used to treat various health problems. Students should be sensitized about their safety concerns and potential drug interactions

10 , 2 , 2020