Trends in herbal usage – A survey study

Abstract

Folk medicine is quite common for primary health care in Bulgaria, and the tradition of plant usage is of importance for the development of pharmaceutical formulations. The objective of this study was to provide up-to-date information regarding trends in herbal usage among citizens in the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. The study involved 114 respondents for a period of 60 calendar days in 2018. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita L.) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) were the most popular plants among the respondents. The common cold is the most frequent example for seeking herbals and other botanicals. Herbal teas are most preferred when it comes to daily consumption. Answers also revealed plants used in households; reasons for herbal consumption, and opinions on common statements concerning herbal stereotypes.