Complementary herbal medicine therapy has gained popularity in the United States due to various factors such as financial outlook, cultural beliefs, and patient dissatisfaction with allopathic practitioners (Purnell, 2013). The use of different complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches, including herbal remedies, chiropractic care, yoga, and massage, highlight the importance of recognizing diverse medical and healthcare systems, practices, and products that are not part of conventional medicine (Purnell, 2013).
One significant aspect of using complementary herbal medicine therapy is its cultural relevance and impact on patient response. Different ethnic groups may have their own knowledge, practices, symbols, understandings, representations, beliefs, values, customs, and traditions associated with herbal medicine (Lindquist, Snyder, & Tracy, 2014). For example, the Chinese and Asian American cultures may have different approaches to the usage of complementary herbal medicine therapy. Therefore, healthcare providers, such as pharmacists and advance practice nurses, in culturally diverse areas should question their patients about their use of herbal medicine to ensure patient education and prevent complications (Lindquist, Snyder, & Tracy, 2014).
Lower socioeconomic groups tend to use and practice complementary herbal medicine therapy regularly, and ethnicity plays a critical role in their choice of herbal medicine (Purnell, 2013). It is essential for healthcare providers to engage in open discussions to understand and provide better care for these populations. By educating patients on the appropriate use, how, and when to use complementary herbal medicine therapy, healthcare providers, including advance practice nurses, can play a role in ensuring patient safety and promoting holistic healthcare (Lindquist, Snyder, & Tracy, 2014).
In conclusion, complementary herbal medicine therapy has gained popularity in the United States due to various factors, including financial outlook, cultural beliefs, and patient dissatisfaction with allopathic practitioners. The use of different CAM approaches highlights the need to recognize diverse medical and healthcare systems, practices, and products that are not part of conventional medicine. Cultural differences play a critical role in defining the appropriate complementary herbal medicine therapy for a particular ethnic group. Healthcare providers should engage in open discussions and patient education to ensure safer use of herbal medicine and better care for diverse populations.