The attitude of medical students concerning herbal medicinal products/phytopharmaceuticals/phytotherapy in different regions of Europe

Background A survey was conducted to assess the knowledge and attitudes of medical students towards Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPs)/phytopharmaceuticals/phytotherapy. Methods In total, 150 students were interviewed in three regions: Germany (n = 50; 64 % female, 36 % male), Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary (n = 50; 64 % female, 36 % male) as well as Italy and Spain (n = 50; 68 % female, 28 % male, 4 % divers). Results Approximately 70 % of participants in all three regions reported having at least some knowledge in this field. While half of the German students held a favorable view of HMPs/phytopharmaceuticals, only 30 % in Italy and Spain and 22 % in the three Eastern countries shared this perspective. Most interviewed students expressed an interest in learning more about the topic, with their primary sources of information being university courses and seminars with practising physicians. Scientific organisations, scientific publications, university professors and lecturers were identified as strongest, most credible influence on the opinion. Conclusion The results suggest a potential for national or international associations to offer relevant education in this field, with a focus on therapeutic effects and evidence regarding benefits and risks.