The Use of Phytotherapy (Herbal Treatment) During Cancer Treatment: A Sample from Türkiye

Background: Patients with cancer may consider using herbal products to alleviate symptoms and support their treatment; however, careful consideration is required, as these products may interact with conventional therapies and cause adverse effects. In this context, nurses play a critical role in assessing the use of herbal therapies, educating patients, and promoting safe, evidence-based practices.
Aim: This study aimed to determine the practices and perceptions of patients undergoing cancer treatment regarding phytotherapy.
Methods: This descriptive study was conducted with 149 patients with cancer receiving treatment at the medical oncology clinics of a university hospital and a training and research hospital in Türkiye between January 2022 and October 2023. Data were collected using three forms developed by the researchers. Descriptive statistics were presented as numbers and percentages, and the chi-square test was used to compare phytotherapy users and non-users.
Results: The patients had a mean age of 55.64 years, and 53.7% were male. A total of 44.3% had a university-level education or higher. Most patients (81.2%) were receiving chemotherapy, and 12.1% used phytotherapy. Only 17.4% were evaluated by an oncology professional regarding phytotherapy. Among users, 60% used phytotherapy to boost immunity, and 64.7% consulted a specialist, most commonly an oncologist. Phytotherapy use was not significantly associated with sociodemographic or medical characteristics.
Conclusion: Healthcare professionals should provide patients with evidence-based information about phytotherapy, and unsupervised use of herbal products should be prevented. Oncology nurses should assess patients’ use of phytotherapy products and provide guidance as needed.

Keywords: Cancer, complementary and integrative medicine, nursing, phytotherapy, survey