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Building upon the World Health Organization's recent publication WHO Strategy for Traditional Medicine (WHO 2002), this paper examines the historical position of "traditional medicines" at their intersection with the development and modernization of a biomedically based health care system in Turkey. This paper considers how the historical development of Turkey's health care system, as a prominent site for the articulation of the state's broader modernization project, sustained particular formulations of subjectivity and citizenship that were defined in opposition to a set of cultural practices and modes of religious-political authority represented by "traditional medicines." Consequently, projects and policies seeking to formally integrate "complementary" or "alternative" therapies directly confront this past and the various ways in which it is reenacted in constituting the present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This paper introduces the study on the European Union Project on complementary therapies and discusses project outputs and results. The goal of the European Union Project was to improve the professional knowledge and skills of women's health and oncology nurses regarding CT. Background: The increasing and widespread use of complementary therapies in the women's health and oncology population requires nurses to be educated about their suitable and safe use. Many nurses do not have proper training in complementary therapies and therefore should not inform their patients about them. Methods: The 'Improving the Nursing Care with Best Complementary Therapy Strategies Based on European Union Standards' (BestCARE) project was a strategic partnership within Erasmus plus for vocational education and training. The BestCARE project was coordinated by the Akdeniz University Nursing Faculty and was carried out with six partners from Turkey and Europe. Results: Fifteen nurses from Turkey and Italy were trained in complementary therapies in England. In addition, training courses and seminars were held in Turkey and Italy for women's health and oncology nurses. The BestCARE programme consisted of 14 work packages. The BestCARE programme was implemented via websites, an e‐learning training programme, training videos, reference and handbook, a curriculum proposal on complementary therapies and a simulation laboratory. Conclusion and implications for nursing and/or health policy: The BestCARE project allowed nurses to gain knowledge, experience and skills about complementary therapies and created a cultural awareness and sensitivity towards patients, caregivers and health professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this systematic review, we aim to evaluate the effectiveness of foot reflexology in reducing labor pain intensity. Material-Method: The study was done in the second half of 2019. PubMed (MEDLINE), CINAHL (EBSCO), Scopus, Science Citation Index, Science Direct, ULAKBIM (Turkish National Databases) databases were searched using terms and keywords including 'labor pain' 'vaginal delivery' 'normal delivery' 'pregnancy and delivery' 'reflexology' 'foot massage' 'pain and reflexology' in three languages. 3292 articles (English, Turkish and Persian languages) reached by using keywords and scanning electronic databases (between 2009 and 2019). Nine descriptive cross-sectional studies were evaluated that involving provide only quantitative results and descriptive designs quantitative elements of mixed (qualitative and quantitative) method studies. Results: Out of the 3292 articles found in the databases, only 9 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Studies have shown that foot reflexology during labor reduces the severity of labor pain. Conclusion: Performing foot reflexology can be an effective and low-cost method of pain relief, reducing both pain and the duration of labor. It is recommended that further studies with sufficient statistical power be conducted in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Primary care physicians need to be aware of the types of traditional and complementary medicine (TCM) used by patients to be able to guide patients away from harmful approaches and to aim them toward useful or at least seeming benign approaches. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of the usage of TCM methods in Turkey and the level of knowledge and attitudes of applicants about these methods. Methods: The universe of this cross-sectional study consisted of individuals aged 18 and over who applied to the Family Health Centers and agreed to participate in the study in 12 provinces in different regions of Turkey between July and December 2016. The questionnaires were applied to the volunteer participants by the researchers using face-to-face interview techniques. The questionnaire had 25 questions. Results: 80.6% of the participants benefited from TCM, and 86.4% stated they believed in the effectiveness of TCM. Women, university graduates of college who had private insurance used TCM (respectively; p=0.031; p=0.004; p=0.000), and women (83.3%) found TCM more useful than men (p=0.005). The most frequent reason for using TCM was "heard that it was useful". Conclusion: The results of our study indicated that a large portion of Turkish primary care patients use TCM and recommend it to their relatives. Therefore, health policies and academic knowledge should be developed in this sense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers aim to examine mediating variable role of health literacy in the relationship between fear of contracting Covid-19 in women and use of holistic complementary alternative medicine. The study was conducted as descriptive cross-sectional. The researchers collected study data by conducting an online questionnaire from 285 women between April 01 and June 30, 2021. In our study, a significant relationship was found between education level and health literacy, having a chronic illness, not being able to find a permanent job and fear of Covid-19 (p < 0.05). Positive correlation exists between fear of contracting Covid-19 and Holistic Complementary and Alternative Medicine Practice (correlation between HCAM Practice β=.21). When health literacy variable is included, the level of relationship decreases (β=.18). The researchers determined that as the level of health literacy increased, the women resorted to HCAM practices less despite their fear of contracting Covid-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to examine in depth the perceptions of postoperative symptom management and coping experiences of individuals with prostate cancer. Material‐Method: The study was conducted with 15 individuals with prostate cancer using a phenomenological research design, which is a qualitative research design. Interviews were conducted via the WhatsApp application. Results: The data were analysed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method. In the data analysis, two categories, five main themes, and 15 sub‐themes emerged. In the category of symptom management perception, there are themes of pain management processes, the use of complementary and alternative therapies and practices to cope with symptoms and improve quality of life. In the category of coping experiences, the themes of individual coping, interpersonal relations, and productivity were obtained. Conclusion: Our study suggests that individuals with prostate cancer have difficulty in symptom management in the postoperative coping process, but they managed them effectively with the support of their spouse, family, and health care professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The study aimed to determine the correlation between pain severity, pain beliefs, pain coping, and attitudes toward complementary and alternative treatments among physical therapy patients. Material-Method: This cross-sectional and analytical was conducted in a physical therapy and rehabilitation hospital in northeastern Türkiye. The sample consisted of 150 physical therapy patients. Data were collected using Demographic Information Form, Pain Beliefs Questionnaire, Pain Coping Questionnaire, and Attitudes towards Complementary and Alternative Medicine Questionnaire. Spearman's Correlation Analysis and Multiple Linear Regression Analysis were used in data analysis. Results: The study revealed that the patients had negative attitudes towards complementary (13.64 ± 4.00) and alternative medicine use (13.18 ± 4.14). The scores were moderate for the patients' psychological (18.62 ± 3.69) and organic belief (33.68 ± 5.17). A significant correlation was determined between patients' attitudes towards complementary medical treatment and conventional medical treatment for pain (p=0.020). The patients had moderate pain intensity (5.70±2.44), and there was a significant correlation between pain intensity and attitudes towards alternative medicine (p=0.012). Conclusion: Physical therapy patients' attitudes towards complementary and alternative medicine are associated with pain coping and severity. The patients should be educated to cope with pain and manage it by health professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and aim. The use of complementary medicine applications is increasing due to the interest of society. We aimed to assess the attitudes, behaviors, and awareness of the patients who applied to a primary care unit towards complementary medicine practices. Material and methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted with the voluntary participation of 562 individuals who admitted in a primary care unit. The data was collected through face-to-face interviews through a research questionnaire form and the Complementary, Alternative, and Conventional Medicine Attitudes Scale between 20 June-20 August 2021. The sample size was calculated with the OpenEpi v3.01program and statistical analyzes were performed using the SPSS-24 package program. Results. Their mean age was 39.73±12.95 years and women accounted for 55.5% (n=312) of all participants. The most known complementary medicine methods were phytotherapy, acupuncture, and cup therapy. The information sources of the participants about Complementary Medicine were mostly people around them; only 31.1% of them consulted a doctor. The mean total scale score was 111.45±19.08. Those with chronic diseases, employees, who had COVID-19 disease, high educational status, and those who evaluated their health status as good had more positive attitudes towards complementary medicine practices. A weak negative correlation was found between age and total scale score. Conclusion. Although positive attitudes towards complementary medicine practices are exhibited, health professionals are consulted at very low rates as a source of information. Health care providers must make arrangements and plans to provide this increasing interest from reliable sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study, on this basis of Turkey, determined physiological factors affecting individuals' being infected by the COVID-19 virus. Material and Methods: For this purpose, on 1104 individuals above the age of 18; necessary data are collected and assessed. Results: The women went through COVID-19 more severely when compared with men. It is also seen that smokers were less infected by COVID-19. It is seen that sunbathing, exercises, sleeping and using minerals did not have positive effects against the disease; usage of plant-based agents did not have positive effects on individuals' resistance against COVID-19 on severeness of the disease and results obtained after usage of medicines; surprisingly, individuals, who used probiotics/prebiotics were in a disadvantageous position against COVID-19. It is seen that individuals had significant changes in their feeding habits. Participants mostly preferred organic animalbased products. It is also seen that there were significant changes in individuals' habits on consumption. It is determined that there was a decrease in the amount of shopping from supermarkets, while at the same time, there was an increase in the amount of shopping from online platforms. Conclusion: The COVID 19 pandemic disrupted many known memories for other pandemics and led to unique new situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance This paper provides new and significant ethnopharmacological information on medicinal plants used by native people who live in Sarigöl and its surroundings in Turkey. Aim of the study To compile herbal remedies from the area of Sarigöl with their traditional uses, parts of the plant used and form of administration as well as to calculate ethnobotanical indices and validate its therapeutic use. Materials and methods Plant samples that have been collected by herbalists or informants from Sarigöl and its surroundings for medical purposes were studied by visiting the villages during the study period, and then brought to the laboratory to identify the species. The relative frequency citation (RFC), use value (UV), informant consensus factor (ICF) and fidelity level (FL) were computed for the plants included in the study as well as a pharmacological validation from International Official sources by using WHO, ESCOP and EMA monographs. Results In this research conducted between 2010 and 2013, 141 taxa affiliated with 55 families, including 3 Gymnosperms, were determined as they used for medical purposes. The study was carried out by visiting 15 villages and 4 herbalist shops identified in Sarigöl and its surroundings. Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, Fabaceae, Rosaceae and Apiaceae have been detected as the most consumed families for medical purposes. The research showed that most of the informants agreed on the use of Vitis vinifera fruits to cure gastrointestinal diseases that demonstrated the highest fidelity level (0.62). Only 31, out of 141, of the species recorded in this study, currently have a monograph with a validated use. Conclusion During the survey, it was observed that local people consumed plants in the form of the infusion, whereas when using hard organs such as bark or branches, decoctions were preferred. It was identified that most of the medicinal plants have been used for gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders, and they are mainly utilized in the form of infusion or decoction. Vitis vinifera has a different traditional use compared to therapeutic indication proposed by monographs from Official sources like ESCOP or EMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance This paper provides significant ethnobotanical information on medicinal plants in the villages of Çatak in the Eastern Anatolia Region. Recording such data calls for urgency. This is the first ethnobotanical study in which statistical calculations about plants are carried out by means of FIC method in Eastern (Van) part of Turkey. Aim of the study This study aims to identify the wild plants collected for medicinal purposes by locals of Çatak which is located in the Eastern Anatolia Region of Turkey, and to identify the uses and local names of these wild plants. Materials and methods A field study had been carried out for a period of approximately 2 years (2010–2012). During this period, 78 plants taxa were collected. Demographic characteristics of participants, names of the local plants, their utilized parts and preparation methods were investigated and recorded. The plant taxa were collected within the scope of the study; and herbarium materials were prepared. In addition, the relative significance value of the taxa was determined, and informant consensus factor (FIC) was calculated for the medicinal plants included in the study. Results We have found out in the literature review of the plants included in our study that 78 plant taxa are already used for medicinal purposes while 19 plants are not available among the records in the literature. The most common families are Asteraceae, Apiaceae, Lamiaceae, Rosaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, and Malvaceae. We include in our study and report for the first time the medicinal uses of Alchemilla buseriana Rothm., Astragalus longifolius Lam., Cephalaria microcephala Boiss., Euphorbia grisophylla M.S. Khan, Fritillaria crassifolia Boiss. & Huet. subsp. kurdica (Boiss. & Noe) Rix, Fritillaria pinardii Boiss., Malabaila lasiocarpa Boiss., Nepeta betonicifolia C.A. Mey., Onobrychis altissima Grossh., Onobrychis carduchorum C.C. Townsend, Papaver bracteatum Lindl., Phlomis tuberosa L., Psephellus karduchorum (Boiss.) Wagenitz, Scutellaria orientalis L. subsp. pichleri (Stapf.) Edmondson, Stachys kurdica Boiss. & Hohen var. kurdica, Tanacetum kotschyi (Boiss.) Grierson, Tanacetum zahlbruckneri (Nâb.) Grierson, Turanecio eriospermus (DC.) Hamzaoğlu, Verbascum pyramidatum M.Bieb. Names of local plants in Turkey vary especially due to vernaculars. The plants that the locals of Çatak use are called with the same or different local names in various parts of Anatolia. Conclusion We found out that locals living in the research area use for therapeutic purpose 78 plants taxa which belong to 22 families. Turkish citizens with different ethnic backgrounds took the questionnaire. These people use these wild plants in treatment of several diseases. Comparison of the data obtained in this study with the experimental data obtained in the previous laboratory studies on the wild plants which grow in Çatak proved ethnobotanical usages to a great extent. Literature review indicated that the therapeutic plants that grow in Çatak are used in different parts of the world for the treatment of similar diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance With this study, we aimed to document traditional uses of medicinal plants in the western part of Aladaglar/Nigde. Materials and methods This study was conducted between 2003 and 2005. The research area was in the western part of the Aladaglar mountains. The settlements in Aladaglar (5 towns and 10 villages) were visited during the field work. The plants collected by the help of medicinal plant users. The plants were identified and voucher specimens prepared. These voucher specimens were kept at the Herbarium of Istanbul University Faculty of Pharmacy (ISTE). We collected the information by means of semi-structured interviews with 170 informants (90 men and 80 women). In addition, the relative importance value of the species was determined and the informant consensus factor (FIC) was calculated for the medicinal plants researched in the study. Results According to the results of the identification, among 126 plants were used by the inhabitants and 110 species belonging to 40 families were used for medicinal purposes. Most of the medicinal plants used in Aladaglar/Nigde belong to the families Lamiaceae (25 species), Asteraceae (16 species), Apiaceae (7 species), Fabaceae (6 species) and Brassicaceae (5 species). The most commonly used plant species were Hypericum perforatum Thymus sipyleus var. sipyleus , Rosa canina , Urtica dioica , Malva neglecta, Thymus leucotrichus, Salix alba, Mentha longifolia , Berberis crataegina, Juniperus oxycedrus , Viscum album subsp. abietis , Allium rotundum and Taraxacum stevenii . The most common preparations were infusion and decoction. The traditional medicinal plants have been mostly used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases (86%), hemorrhoids (79%), urinary diseases (69%), diabetes (68%) and respiratory diseases (61%). Conclusion The use of traditional medicine was still widespread among the inhabitants of Aladaglar mountains/Nigde region. Due to the lack of medical facilities in the villages of Aladaglar mountains, local people prefer herbal treatment rather than medical treatment. This study identified not only the wild plants collected for medical purposes by local people of Aladaglar/Nigde, but also the uses and local names of these plants. This paper helps to preserve valuable information that may otherwise be lost to future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction is presented to the article "Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in Turkish cutaneous melanoma patients: A prospective study from tertiary cancer center" which appeared in the previous issue of the periodical.

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: This paper represents the first large-scale ethnobotanical study in the Alaşehir and its surrounding (Manisa/Turkey). There are scarcely any studies for using plants. There is urgency in recording such data. This is the first ethnobotanical study in which statistical calculations about plants are done by ICF (Informant Consensus Factor) method. This study aimed to identify plants collected for medicinal purposes by the local people of Alaşehir, located in the Aegean Region of Turkey, and to document the traditional names, preparation and uses of these plants. Materials and methods: Field study was carried out over a period of approximately 2 years (2010–2012) in Alaşehir. During this period, 137 vascular plant specimens were collected. Demographic characteristics of participants, local plant names, utilized parts and preparation methods of the plants were investigated and recorded. In the scope of the study, medicinal plant species and related information were collected; herbarium materials were prepared; and the specimens were entitled. Field research was conducted by collecting ethnobotanical information during structured and semi-structured interviews with native knowledgeable people in territory. In addition, the relative importance value of species was determined and ICF was calculated for the medicinal plants included in the study. Results: A total of 137 medicinal plants belonging to 58 families were identified in the region. Among them, 105 species are wild and 32 species are cultivated plant. The most dominant medicinal plant families were Asteraceae (>13%), Lamiaceae (>11%), Rosaceae (>7%), and Fabaceae (>4%), again; the most common preparations were infusion and decoction. It was found that Origanum onites L., Urtica urens, Thymus zygioides Griseb., Matricaria chamomilla L., Salvia tomentosa Mill., Cerasus avium (L.), Tilia argentea Desf. ex DC., Hyoscyamus niger L., Urtica pilulifera L., Anethum graveolens L., Euphorbia rigida Bieb., Hypericum perforatum L., Paliurus spina-christi Mill., Rosa canina L., Viscum album L. subsp. austriacum (Wiesb.) Vollman, Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn., Elymus repens (L.) Gould and Juglans regia L. were the most commonly used species. The traditional medicinal plants have been mostly used for the treatment respiratory tract diseases (14.1%), gastro-intestinal diseases (10%), kidney problems (7.3%), diabetes (7.1%), cholesterol (5%), rheumatism (4%), cancer various (4%), cardiovascular problems (3.1%) and burn (3%). Conclusion: Gathering, processing and consuming wild edible plants are still practiced in all the studied Alaşehir areas. These plants, used in the treatment of many different diseases, are freely harvested in this region at abundant amounts. Due to the increasing health service facilities in the area, herbal medicine, seemed to be more related to health care and disease prevention than cure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: A comprehensive ethnobotanical study was made in Turgutlu. This paper contains folk medicinal plants and ethnopharmacological information of this ethnobotanical study. Aim of study: The aim of this study is to collect and identify the plants used in therapy by the local people and to reveal information on traditional herbal medicine. Materials and methods: This study was made between 2010 and 2011 and its materials were the plants collected during the field work. The information was obtained through open and semi-structured interviews with the local people. In addition, informant consensus factor (FIC) and use value (UV) were calculated. Results: 76 Folk medicinal plants belonging to 44 families were identified in this study. Among them, 68 species are wild and eight species are cultivated plants. The most common families are Asteraceae (11.8%), Rosaceae (9.2%), Lamiaceae (7.9%), Apiaceae (3.9%) and Malvaceae (3.9%); the most common preparations were infusion (37%) and decoction (18.5%). A total of 177 medicinal uses (remedies) was recorded. Digestive system disorders have the highest FIC (0.73). According to use value (UV) the most important plants were Rosa canina (0.75), Ficus carica subsp. carica (0.74), Tilia platyphyllos (0.71) and Vitex agnus-castus (0.70). Conclusion: In the research area the use of traditional folk medicine is still prevalent in the community especially in the villages. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Problem: The study was conducted to examine the effects of laughter therapy on happiness level and self‐esteem in 5th grade students. Methods: This study used an experimental study with pretest posttest control group. The study population consisted of 5th grade students studying at a secondary school in Turkey. There were six branches in the 5th grade. Groups were randomly selected from among these 5th grade classes to include 29 students in the intervention group and 32 in the control group. Laughter therapy sessions were applied to the intervention group twice a week for 4 weeks. No intervention was offered to the control group. The data were collected by a questionnaire, the School Children's Happiness Inventory, and the Coopersmith Self‐Esteem Inventory. Results: It was determined that there was a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of the School Children's Happiness Inventory (p <.05) but no significant difference was found according to the groups' scores on the Coopersmith Self‐Esteem Inventory (p >.05). Conclusions: In this study, it was determined that laughter therapy increased the happiness level of students yet had no effect on their self‐esteem. It is recommended to organize laughter therapy activities in schools to increase the happiness levels of students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: This study aimed to document traditional uses of medicinal plants in the Marmaris district of south-west Anatolia and to compare this information with our current knowledge of plant medicine in Turkey and the Mediterranean countries. Materials and methods: We collected the information through semi-structured interviews with 98 informants (51 men and 47 women). In addition, the relative importance value of species was determined and informant consensus factor (FIC) was calculated for the medicinal plants included in the study. Results: We report the medicinal uses of 64 plant species belonging to 35 families, including the uses of nine essential oils. Most of the medicinal plants used in the Marmaris district belong to the families Lamiaceae (13 species) and Asteraceae (four species). The most commonly used plant species are Salvia fruticosa, Origanum onites, Lavandula stoechas, Mentha pulegium and Satureja thymbra. For the purposes of making essential oils, Salvia fruticosa is the plant species most commonly used. Two of the plants we report on (Liquidambar orientalis, Phlomis lycia) are endemic to Turkey and the East Agean Islands. Sideritis libanotica subsp. linearis is endemic to Turkey, Lebanon and Syria. Thymus cilicicus is endemic to Turkey, East Agean Islands, Lebanon and Syria. For six plant species (Narcissus tazetta, Lagenaria siceraria, Hypericum montbrettii, Phlomis grandiflora var. grandiflora, Polygonum bellardii, Crataegus aronia var. aronia) we report new different ethnobotanical uses not previously reported in Turkey. Conclusions: Some plants are used for medicinal purposes both in Marmaris and in other parts of Turkey and in the Mediterranean countries, either for the same or for different purposes. This paper helps to preserve valuable information that may otherwise be lost to future generations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: This paper provides significant ethnobotanical information on medical plants in the Western Region of Turkey. There is urgency in recording such data. This is the first ethnobotanical study in which statistical calculations about plants are done by FIC method in western part of Turkey. Aim of study: This study aimed to identify plants collected for medical purposes by the local people of Edremit Gulf, located in the Western Region of Turkey, and to document the uses and local names of these plants. Materials and methods: This study, conducted between 2007 and 2010, gathered information on the medicinal plant species traditionally used in Edremit Bay, Turkey and the local names of these plants. In the scope of the study, medicinals plant species and related information were collected; herbarium materials were prepared; and the specimens were entitled. Field research was conducted by collecting ethnobotanical information during structured and semi-structured interviews with native knowledgeable people in territory. In addition, the relative importance value of species was determined and informant consensus factor (FIC) was calculated for the medicinal plants included in the study. Results: A total of 118 medical plants belonging to 50 families were identified in the region. Among them, 99 species are wild and 19 species are cultivated plant. The most common medicinal plant families were Lamiaceae (>18%), Asteraceae (>11%), Rosaceae (>7%); the most common preparations were infusion and decoction. It was found that Hypericum perforatum, Lavandula stoechas, Salviatomentosa, Origanum onites, Origanum vulgare, and Teucrium polium were the most commonly used species. A total of 218 medicinal uses (remedies) were recorded. The traditional medicinal plants have been mostly used for the treatment of abdominal and stomach pain (17%), cough and cold (12%), diabetes (6%), kidney ailments (5%), wounds (4%). Conclusion: The use of traditional medicine was still widespread among the people interviewed during this study. Due to the increasing health service facilities in the area, herbal medicine, seemed to be more related to health care and disease prevention than cure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Akinci AC, Zengin N, Yildiz H, Sener E, Gunaydin B. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2011; 17: 571-582 The complementary and alternative medicine use among asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients in the southern region of Turkey The aim of this descriptive study was to investigate the complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) applications and factors associated and its use among asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients in the southern region of Turkey. The study sample consisted of 197 patients. A percentage of 86.3 of asthma and COPD patients used at least one type of CAM. The most commonly used CAM methods are deep inhalation (51.8%), herb or herbal tea (46.7%), praying (41.1%) and applying vapour (36%). Patients generally use CAM methods for breathing comfortably, improving respiration, reducing dyspnoea, and relaxing. Patients frequently use CAM methods together with medical treatments, and they benefit from these methods without getting any harm. The rate of CAM usage is higher among patients who have a longer period of asthma and COPD and more than five symptoms of asthma and COPD. In conclusion, CAM is used commonly by asthma and COPD patients. The CAM usage rate is higher among patients who have a longer period of asthma and COPD and more than five symptoms of asthma and COPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the complementary and traditional-spiritual practices applied by individuals diagnosed with cancer when experiencing significant pain. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with 110 patients who were receiving chemotherapy treatment in a university hospital outpatient treatment unit (Chemotherapy Unit) between 1st March and 30th June 2019. The study sample size was calculated using the 'unknown-population sample selection formula' (n = t2·p·q·/d2). Study data were collected using a patient information form comprising 13 questions about the participants' sociodemographic characteristics, diseases, and complementary practices. The data were analyzed using descriptive percentage tests and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) software. The study found that 45.5% of the cancer patients took a walk, 38.2% listened to music, 27.3% watched movies, 24.5% received massages, 20.0% read newspapers or books, 20.0% did sports, and 10.9% dreamed in painful situations. Spiritual practices used by the patients were determined as praying (46.4%), engaging in salat (the daily ritual prayers of Islam) (30.9%) and reading religious books (23.6%). The herbal practices applied by the patients include the use of garlic, mulberry molasses, pomegranate, green tea; furthermore, herbs such as honey, sage, lime, black cumin, ginger, centaury, thyme, nettle, flaxseeds, and rosehip were also used. Most of the patients learned complementary practices from television programs (62.7%); only 8.2% learned these practices from healthcare professionals. Nurses should investigate patients' use of complementary practices and provide them with the necessary evidence-based information to prevent unconscious use of these practices. Considering that determining patients' spiritual needs and practices is seen as the first step in the holistic care of patients, it is important to satisfy cancer patients by providing necessary healthcare services and help them improve their physical and mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background While previous research has shown that trust in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is linked with other unfounded beliefs (e.g. paranormal phenomena or pharmaceutical conspiracies) and that analytic thinking can help alter these beliefs, the role of the ability to evaluate evidence as a protective factor has not been established yet. Methods A cross-sectional design with a hundred participants was used with self-report data from questionnaires and performance test. The dependent variables were the belief in CAM and use of CAM. Predictor variables were scientific reasoning (measured by Scientific Reasoning Scale), critical thinking dispositions (measured by Critical Thinking Disposition Instrument; UF-EMI), religious beliefs (measured by Santa Clara Strength of Religious Faith Questionnaire), gender and age. Results Scientific reasoning and religious faith independently predicted belief in alternative medicine, while the role of scientific reasoning in actual reported use of CAM diminished after religious faith, gender and age were introduced to the model. Conclusion The results highlight the fact that it is not enough to appeal to the general critical thinking of people, but we need to teach them some practical skills that would help them to evaluate evidence in other, health-unrelated, contexts as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose : This study was conducted to determine the complementary therapies used by patients diagnosed with lomber and cervical disc hernia with planned surgical intervention in order to relieve the pain. Metods : 92 patients who were hospitalized due to lomber/cervical disc hernia were included in the study between 01 December 2014- 30 June 2015 in Department of Neurosurgery, Training Hospital. During the preoperative period, data in the questionnaire form were filled by direct conversations with the patients. Results : We found of 34 percent of patients used a complementary therapy for pain relief. It was determined that 43.8 percent of the patients were using the complementary methods with the influence of the social environment, 31.3 percent of them used them to reduce the pain and 62.5 percent of patients who use complementary therapies say they benefit from this method. The difference between the gender, medical diagnosis of patients and the application of complementary therapy in later life was statistically significant. Conclusions : The study showed that patients with lumber/cervical disc hernia referred to complementary methods at the time of preoperative pain relief and that the most commonly used complementary method was traction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Abnormal Savda Munziq (ASMq) is a traditional prescription in Uyghur Medicine, and its treatment of complex diseases such as tumors and asthma has been proven to be effective in Uyghur medical clinical practice. The efficacy-enhancing and toxicity-reducing properties of ASMq were studied on mice with transplanted cervical cancer (U27) tumors, which were treated with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in this work. Methods: To investigate the synergistic effect of ASMq and 5-FU on U27 cells, inhibitory effects on cell proliferation were determined through a MTT assay. 48 Kunming mice which were randomly divided in to 6 groups: control group, model group, 5-FU group, 5-FU combine with ASMq low-dose group, 5-FU combine with ASMq medium-dose group, and 5-FU combine with ASMq high- dose group, the inhibition rate of the tumor, the viscera indexes, and the content of serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were determined. The expression levels of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and human papillomavirus type 16 E2 (HPV16 E2) protein were assessed by Western blot. Pathological changes in the liver were observed. Result: The inhibition rates of tumors, the 5-FU + ASMq.H group(80.64%), 5-FU + ASMq.M group (90.67%), 5-FU + ASMq.L group (72.03%) and 5-FU group (66.89%), clearly indicated that the effects of tumor inhibition. The thymus index and spleen index were increased, and the serum concentration of TNF-α increased while ALT and AST concentrations were decreased, and TNF-α protein expression were increased while TGF-β1 and HPV16 E2 were decreased. ASMq might can improve livers central vein hyperemia and interstitial edema, and preserve the radial structure of the hepatic cords. Conclusions: The results suggested that ASMq might reduce toxicity and enhance the efficacy of the chemotherapeutic drug 5-fluorouracil in the treatment of cervical carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and objectives To detect traditional methods applied for the treatment of newborn jaundice by mothers in Turkey. Background Traditional methods are generally used in our society. Instead of using medical services, people often use already-known traditional methods to treat the disease. In such cases, the prognosis of the disease generally becomes worse, the treatment period longer and healthcare costs higher, and more medicine is used. Design A cross-sectional descriptive study. Methods The participants of this study were 229 mothers with newborn babies aged 0-28 days in one university hospital and one public children's hospital in Sanliurfa. The study was conducted between March and May 2012. In this research, the Beliefs and Traditional Methods of Mothers for Jaundice Questionnaire, which was formed by searching the relevant literature, is used as a data collection tool. The data are evaluated by percentage distributions. Results Mothers apply conventional practices in cases of health problems such as jaundice, and application of these methods is important to mothers. Moreover, mothers reported applying hazardous conventional methods in cases of neonatal jaundice, such as cutting the area between the baby's eyebrows with a blade, cutting the back of the ear and the body and burning the body, which are not applied in different cultures. Conclusions Education regarding the effects of conventional methods being applied in families should be provided, and the results of this study should serve to guide further studies in assessing the effects of such education. Relevance to clinical practice This approach can support beneficial practices involving individual care and prevent the negative health effects of hazardous practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This quantitative descriptive study was carried out in order to determine the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for management of menopausal symptoms in women in Samsun, Turkey. Data on general demographic characteristics, menopause-related symptoms, and the use of CAM and herbal therapy were collected from 281 women undergoing the process of the climacteric period, admitted to the gynaecology polyclinic of a hospital in Samsun province. To evaluate the data, descriptive statistics, Student t-tests, and logistic regression analysis were used. In this study the most common CAM methods were identified as herbal therapy (29.9%), dieting (29.5%), exercise (29.2%), and massage (27.8%). Approximately one-third of the women identified as benefitting from CAM methods. More than half identified as not having informed a health care professional about their use of these methods of achieving symptom relief. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infertility patients are a vulnerable group that often seeks a non-medical solution for their failure to conceive. World-wide, women use CAM for productive health, but only a limited number of studies report on CAM use to enhance fertility. Little is known about traditional and religious forms of therapies that are used in relation to conventional medicine in Turkey. We investigated the prevalence and types of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) used by infertile Turkish women for fertility enhancement. Methods: A face-to-face questionnaire inquiring demographic information and types of CAM used for fertility enhancement were completed by hundred infertility patients admitted to a primary care family planning centre in Van, Turkey between January and July 2009. Results: The vast majority of infertile women had used CAM at least once for infertility. CAM use included religious interventions, herbal products and recommendations of traditional "hodja's" (faith healers). Of these women, 87.8% were abused in the last 12 months, 36.6% felt not being supported by her partner and 80.5% had never spoken with a physician about CAM. Conclusions: Infertile Turkish women use complementary medicine frequently for fertility enhancement and are in need of information about CAM. Religious and traditional therapies are used as an adjunct to, rather than a substitute for, conventional medical therapy. Physicians need to approach fertility patients with sensitivity and should be able to council their patients about CAM accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethanol extracts from six species representing six different families, used in traditional medicine in Turkey were evaluated for their antilisterial activities. The antilisterial activities of Plantago major L., Ononis spinosa L., Lythrum salicaria L., Juglans regia L., Centranthus longiflorus Stev., and Teucrium polium L. were tested against four different Listeria isolates ( L. monocytogenes , L. ivanovii , L. innocua , and L. murrayi ) by the agar diffusion method and the macrodilution method. All plants showed antilisterial activity against L. monocytogenes . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]