Raw data and project questionnaires

Abstract:

Introduction:
The global COVID-19 pandemic drove significant interest in alternative options for infection prevention and treatment. Among these alternatives, natural remedies (NR) gained considerable attention. This study aims to explore the prevalence, usage patterns, and perceptions regarding NRs for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 among adults in the United Arab Emirates.

Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and March 2021 using a self-administered questionnaire distributed through social media platforms. The study targeted UAE residents aged 18 and above. Data collected from the questionnaires were analysed using SPSS version 26.

Results:
A total of 382 responses were analyzed. Before the pandemic, 74.6% (n = 285) used NRs for disease prevention and/or treatment, but only 27.7% (n = 106) used them for COVID-19 prevention, 3.9% (n =15) for treatment, and 11.8% (n =45) for both. Gender (p = 0.011), and age (p = 0.045) were significantly associated with NR use against COVID-19. Most participants believed that NRs had low efficacy in preventing (41.6%, n = 159) or treating (52.9%, n = 202) COVID-19. Among those with a COVID-19 history, 42.9% (n = 24) believed NRs made quarantine unnecessary, compared to 25.6% (n = 79) without such a history. No significant difference in perceived risk was found between NR users and non-users.

Conclusion:
The low prevalence of NR use for COVID-19 prevention and/or treatment in the UAE emphasizes the need for public health campaigns to promote their use as adjunct therapy and for further research to evaluate their efficacy and safety.