Abstract

Purpose: The usage of herbal medicine (HM) and phytopharmaceuticals (Phyph) has become increasingly popular among individuals in Jordan. This study aims to assess the current use of HM and Phyph among patients who are admitted into the hospital and are scheduled for surgery under general anaesthesia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Al-Hussein Hospital, Salt, Jordan using a data collection sheet. All patients who were admitted to surgical operation under general anaesthesia were included. Results: About 98 patients were enrolled in this study with a mean age of 42.44 ± 16.83 years, of which 55.1% were women. Endocrine and cardiovascular diseases were the most common medical conditions. Most patients reported using HM (N= 61.2%), and Phyph (31.6%) on regular bases. The most used HM were sage, chamomile, mint, and rosemary. Longer recovery time, hypotension, and hypoglycemia were significantly higher post-surgery in patients who used HM, 40%, 28.3%, and 18.3%, respectively, p<0.05. Average INR test values for patients using Phyph were significantly higher than non-users (1.22 ± 0.75 and 1.03 ± 0.19, respectively, p <0.05). Conclusion: Information concerning HM and Phyph use among patients undergoing general anaesthesia should be investigated. In addition, there is a need to raise healthcare providers’ awareness of the potential risk associated with the use of these products.