ABSTRACT
Introduction: Complementary and Integrative Medicine (CIH) has been a popular medical approach. This study aimed to investigate CIH use in patients afflicted with COVID-19. Methods: In this telephone- based cross-sectional study, the data of CIH usage were collected from confirmed COVID-19 patients from February till June 2020in Fars province, Iran. Besides, we asked the patients' attitudes towards using these treatments. Results: Out of 453 patients diagnosed with COVID-19, 400 (88.30%) enrolled into the study and answered our question and. In this regard, 276 (69%) patients reported using CIH to treat COVID-19. The most frequently used herbal medicine among COVID-19 patients was ginger (98.9%), thyme (95.3%), and black cumin (74.3%). Most of these patients were recommended to use herbal medicine by their families and friends (34.8%). Overall, 86.2% reported high and very high levels of satisfaction using these medications. Residents of urban areas (p=0.005), employees (p<0.001), patients with an academic education (p<0.001), as well as outpatients(p<0.001) used more CIH in comparison with the others. Ultimately, only 9 (3.3%) patients consulted with their doctors regarding using these medications. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that many patients with COVID-19used CIH, but few of them consulted with their physician consultation. Physicians should ask their patients about CIH usage and patients should also report their use of CIH therapies during their medical visits. Keywords: COVID-19, complementary and alternative medicine, medicinal plant, traditional medicine, alternative medicine, Prevalence, use