Integrating traditional, folk and home remedies with conventional medicine in the prevention and management of illness and disease in Iran: Voices of consumers

Author Identifier (ORCID)

Lisa Whitehead: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6395-0279

Abstract

Traditional, folk and home remedies are widely used worldwide and is correlated with health and disease, health policies, and health interventions on the communities. The aim was to document the use of traditional, folk and home remedies to treat and prevent illness, disease and maintain well-being in Iran. A qualitative approach involving face to face interviews conducted in Arak city in Iran (n = 33). The data were analyzed using content analysis. Data analysis led to the generation of three main themes with a number of sub-categories identified in each: Participants’ perception (Knowledge and practices and Source of knowledge); Participants’ attitudes (Perceived usefulness, Consultation of healthcare personnel, Free advice and recommendation on traditional remedies use, Perception of safety), and use and practices (Client and healthcare related factors, Types and methods used in traditional, folk and home remedies, prioritize to use of traditional, folk and home remedies, Indication of use). This study provides valuable insights into the perceptions and practices related to traditional, folk, and home remedies in Iran. The findings have practical significance for healthcare providers, particularly nurses, by highlighting the importance of recognizing patients' use of these remedies and offering targeted education to prevent potential side effects. Furthermore, the study informs health policymakers by emphasizing the need for culturally appropriate healthcare strategies that integrate traditional practices, ultimately aiming to improve community health outcomes.

Keywords

Alternative therapy, complementary therapy, folk remedies, home remedies, traditional remedies

Document Type

Journal Article

Date of Publication

6-1-2026

Volume

13

Issue

2

Publication Title

Advances in Integrative Medicine

Publisher

Elsevier

School

School of Nursing and Midwifery

Comments

Jadidi, A., Ebrahimabadi, M., Whitehead, L., Arabiat, D., Rahbarian, A., & Nejat, N. (2026). “Integrating traditional, folk and home remedies with conventional medicine in the prevention and management of illness and disease in Iran: Voices of consumers.” Advances in Integrative Medicine, 13(2), 100633. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aimed.2026.100633

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Link to publisher version (DOI)

10.1016/j.aimed.2026.100633