Factors related to the oral herbal use behavior of the elderly in Kham Khwang Subdistrict, Warin Chamrap District, Ubon Ratchathani Province

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the behaviors related to the use of oral herbal remedies among elderly individuals, as well as to examine the factors associated with these behaviors in the Kham Khwang Sub-district, Warin Chamrap District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. The sample consists of 362 elderly individuals, with data collected through a questionnaire that includes personal factors, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding oral herbal remedies. The content validity was verified by experts, resulting in an IOC value of 0.96, and the overall reliability coefficient was 0.786. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, including percentages, means, and standard deviations, while relationships were assessed using Chi-square statistics and Fisher's Exact Test. P-value <0.05 was set for statistical significant. The result found that most of elderly were female (55.2 %) with the age group of 60 -70 years (57.2 %). They obtained primary education level (76.8 %) and their marital status (69.6 %). agriculturist (61.6%). Knowledge about oral herbal was low (73.0%, x̅ =11.48 ±1.80) attitudes towards using herbal for oral care were moderate (73.0%, x̅ = 3.40±0.94) and behavior related to using herbal for oral care was low (73.8%, x̅ = 2.13±1.08). Factors significantly associated with oral herbal medicine use behavior included gender, marital status, occupation, knowledge level, and attitude level (p = 0.048, 0.006, 0.011, 0.012, and p < 0.001, respectively). Based on the study results, it is recommended to promote and organize educational activities that enhance knowledge and attitudes among the elderly, helping them recognize the benefits of using herbal medicine for oral health care. This approach can serve as a complementary treatment and reduce healthcare costs associated with conventional medications.