The Use of Herbal Medicine Among Sleman Residents during COVID-19 Pandemic

Various treatment methods were still being researched around the world and led to find an alternative option to prevent COVID-19 infection. Herbal medicine was an alternative therapy to help increase immunity. This study explored the use of herbal medicines during the COVID-19 pandemic in DI Yogyakarta, especially in Sleman. An online survey was conducted via Google Form to respondents who lived in Sleman that aged 18 years and older. A total of 68 respondents participated in the survey. About 83.8% of participants had taken herbal medicines since before the COVID-19 pandemic to increase their immunity (67.6%). The most consumed herbs were ginger (83.6%), orange (61.8%), and turmeric (47.3%). Nearly 72.1% of participants knew that the consumption of herbal medicines and supplements alone was not enough to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In addition, people believed herbal medicines were safer than conventional medicine because herbal medicines had fewer side effects and come from nature