Exploring consumer attitudes: Organic herb cordyceps and intention to purchase

Abstract

Cordyceps are a form of herb that is nurtured and propagated utilizing organic farming techniques. This study investigated consumers’ intention towards adopting the organic herb cordyceps, also referred to as “Thungchao” in Thai language. The research was driven by increased health awareness among people, and skewness towards use of organic as compared to conventional medica-tion. In Thailand, the herb has been consumed traditionally for years, because of its medical ben-efits. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) was applied to investigate the outcomes of users’ perceptions (perceived experience with organic product, perceived health benefit, information awareness) and TPB aspects (subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, attitude towards organic herb) to examine intentions of consumers’ towards adopting codyceps. The research collected primary data from 452 Thai respondents. Collected data were evaluated utilizing Structural Equation Modeling analysis. Results revealed that for the perceived customers’ experience, intention to use organic herb cordyceps was positively and significantly influenced by perceived experience with organic hers and information awareness. All the TPB variables – subjective norm, perceived behavior control, and attitude towards organic herbs – significantly and positively influence consumers’ intention towards organic herb cordyceps. The research recommended that organic herb cordyceps “Thungchao” has many medical benefits, and its consumption should be encouraged. Information awareness and sharing of the knowledge of the herb’s medical require-ment and benefits, resources and dosage are necessary to encourage or rather influence consumers intention.