Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Community Pharmacists Regarding Herbal Medicines in Sulaimani City

Volume 28 , Issue 1 , June 2026 , Pages 18-28

Authors

Firdaus Ahmed 1 ; Nza Burhan 2 ; Dina Tariq Abdalghafoor 2 ; Sana Majid Mohammed 2 ; Gasha Abdullah Mohammed 2

1 Department of Basic Medical Science, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan region/Iraq

2 Department of Pharmacy, Kurdistan Technical Institute, Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan region/Iraq.

DOI logo 10.17656/sujpas.1103

Keywords

Abstract

Herbal medicines are widely used for primary healthcare globally, yet their safe use requires proper knowledge, regulation, and professional guidance. As accessible healthcare professionals, community pharmacists are in a key position to ensure safe and effective use of herbal products. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of community pharmacists in Sulaimani city, Iraq, regarding herbal medicines, and to identify gaps in training and information sources. A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 138 licensed community pharmacists in Sulaimani city using a structured, self-administered online questionnaire. The survey gathered data on demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to herbal medicines. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the responses. Among 138 pharmacists, most were female (68.1%), aged 25–34 years (61.6%), and had 1–5 years’ experience (50.7%). Knowledge of herbal medicines and their potential side effects was high (>94%), and 84.1% recognized herb–drug interactions, yet only 16.7% knew of national regulations. Pharmacists strongly supported professional training (4.55 ± 0.89) and patient education (4.40 ± 0.95). While 74.6% dispensed herbal medicines and typically recommended them “sometimes,” only 34.8% documented side effects; 69.6% had refused dispensing due to safety concerns. Main information sources were personal reading and university education. Community pharmacists in Sulaimani city demonstrate strong awareness and positive attitudes toward herbal medicine use. However, gaps in regulatory knowledge and pharmacovigilance practices suggest a need for targeted professional training and structured educational interventions.

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  • First online25 June 2026
  • Published at25 June 2026

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