Effectiveness of herbal medicine and its impact on the quality of life of the settlers of Curgos, Peru

Abstract

The effectiveness of herbal medicine, its relation with sociodemographic and therapeutic factors, as well as its impact on the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of the settlers of Curgos was studied. A sample by conglomerates of 217 individuals was considered, along with an Interview Guide and an algorithm executed in SPSS, for obtaining the data. From 20 ailments treated, healing occurred in 37,31% and relief in 59,50% of cases. The effectiveness level was significantly related to the sex and occupation of the individuals who have had genitourinary inflammation, the residence area of those who suffered from cold and abdominal colic, the information source and the frequency and duration of treatment of those after suffering all compared ailments. Most of the settlers reached the most suitable health conditions, especially in physical function, emotional role and social functioning. The standarized means of the HRQL dimensions, except for those of the general health, were greater than 50, especially those of mental health and vitality. It is concluded that the effectiveness of the herbal medicine is high, being more frequent the relief and that exists significant association between the effectiveness level and some selected factors. Also, that the herbal treatment improves the HRQL ofthe settlers of Curgos.