This study aimed to evaluate pharmacy students’ knowledge and perceptions regarding the use of Boswellia, Eucalyptus, Licorice Root, and Butterbur in asthma management, while emphasizing the importance of safety and evidence-base practice. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using five knowledge-based and five opinion-based questions on four herbal remedies to assess first-year pharmacy students. The data collected from 28 participants were analyzed using SPSS for correctness and agreement. Results: The True or False Questionnaire displays that majority of respondents (75%) believe that Eucalyptus can be beneficial in alleviating asthma symptoms and improving breathing. Many respondents (82.1%) recognize that licorice root is known to be a natural remedy for managing asthma. Almost all respondents (89.3%) were aware of butterbur containing small levels of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Approximately 50% of respondents (46.4%) knew that complementary therapies like boswellia, eucalyptus, licorice root, and butterbur could not replace conventional asthma medications for long-term asthma management. Less than 50% of respondents (42.9%) believed that Boswellia has not been scientifically proven to effectively treat asthma symptoms. Opinion-based were evaluated as well and showed belief in Boswellia's Effectiveness and over 90% of respondents either agree or strongly agree with the effectiveness of Boswellia as a treatment for asthma. The majority (82.1%) agrees or strongly agrees that Eucalyptus can help alleviate asthma symptoms and improve lung function. Responses are varied regarding the effectiveness of Licorice Root, with (64.3%) expressing agreement or strong agreement. A majority (82.1%) agrees or strongly agrees that Butterbur is a well-established herbal treatment for asthma. Responses vary on the replacement of conventional asthma medications with complementary therapies, with 75% expressing agreement or strong agreement. Conclusions: This study highlights a gap between pharmacy students’ knowledge and perceptions of herbal remedies in asthma management. Pharmacy students demonstrated basic awareness of herbal remedies but overestimated their effectiveness and role in the management of asthma. Misconceptions about replacing conventional therapies highlight a need for improved education on evidence-based practice and safety using CAM therapies in pharmacy curricula. Additionally, caution should be exercised when considering the complete replacement of conventional asthma medications with complementary therapies. A collaborative approach involving healthcare professionals is essential to ensure informed decision-making and optimal asthma management.
Smith et al. (Wed,) studied this question.