A study on awareness and attitude of people towards use of traditional medicine in Central Kashmir, J&K

Abstract

Background: Jammu and Kashmir, known as “heaven on earth,” is characterized by high mountains, dense forests, and rich biodiversity. These natural resources contribute to the regional economy and provide medicinal plants widely used in traditional healthcare. Hakeems, Vaidyas, and local communities possess valuable knowledge of medicinal plants and their therapeutic uses. However, this traditional knowledge is increasingly threatened by environmental changes and anthropogenic activities.

Objective: To assess the awareness and attitudes of people in Central Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, towards the use of traditional Unani medicine.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 randomly selected respondents, including 200 males and 200 females, recruited from Unani hospitals and the general population. Data were collected using a structured and validated questionnaire and analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.

Results: Respondents were aware of the importance of traditional medicine, but their attitude towards using Unani medicine for treatment was comparatively low. Awareness of Unani medicine as a treatment option was reported by 69.5% of males and 73.5% of females. Family elders were the main source of information (32.5% males; 38.5% females), followed by neighbours (17.0% males; 20.0% females) and friends (15.0% males; 18.5% females). A statistically significant gender difference was observed regarding treatment preference (P < 0.01).

Conclusion: Negative attitudes towards medicinal plants and inadequate healthcare facilities remain major barriers to the effective use of Unani medicine. Large-scale awareness programmes and improved healthcare facilities are needed to promote the use and conservation of traditional medicinal knowledge in Jammu and Kashmir.