Herbal Plants: A Quantitative Study on the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice among Households in a Rural Community in Philippines

Abstract

Background: Herbal plants continue to be widely utilized in households, particularly in rural communities, due to their affordability, accessibility, and cultural significance. However, concerns regarding their safety, quality, and the lack of standardized knowledge underscore the need to assess individuals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward their appropriate use. Herbal plants constitute an essential component of primary health care in rural communities attributable to their accessibility, affordability, and cultural significance Aims: This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) respecting Department of Health (DOH)-approved herbal plants among households in a particular rural community in Iloilo Province, Philippines, and to determine the relationships among these variables. Study Design: A descriptive-correlational approach to research was applied. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted among households in a selected rural community in Iloilo Province during the academic year 2025–2026. Methodology: Data was collected from 117 households’ respondents utilizing a validated questionnaire that was developed and prepared by the researchers. Results: The findings demonstrated that the survey respondents had an acceptable moderate knowledge of herbal plants, especially about their safety and common uses. The respondents exhibited a markedly favorable disposition towards herbal plants, demonstrating substantial attitudes regarding their therapeutic value, safety, and continual relevance in health care. The respondents demonstrated a significant degree of practice, as numerous households consistently produced and utilized herbal plants for prevalent health issues and adhered to suggested preparation techniques. It was indicated there was no significant correlation between knowledge and attitude, nor between knowledge and practice. A notable moderate positive correlation was identified between attitude and practice, indicating that good attitudes toward herbal plants are linked to their regular utilization within homes. Conclusion: The findings underscore the necessity of enhancing community-based health education initiatives to augment understanding of the accurate identification, preparation, and dose of herbal plants. Improving awareness through culturally appropriate and evidence-based health education may further encourage the safe and effective utilization of DOH-approved herbal plants as complementary health practices in rural communities.