The Influence of Socioeconomic Factors on the Use of Medicinal Plants for Diabetes

The use of medicinal plants in managing diabetes is widespread, especially in communities with limited access to conventional healthcare. This study examines the influence of socioeconomic factors, such as income, education, and geographic location, on the use of medicinal plants for diabetes treatment. Through a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and in-depth interviews conducted with individuals from diverse demographic and socioeconomic backgrounds, this study investigates how these factors shape individuals’ health practices and preferences, particularly in rural versus urban settings. The findings suggest that lower-income and less-educated individuals are more likely to rely on medicinal plants due to financial constraints and limited access to healthcare. Furthermore, geographical location, particularly in rural areas, plays a significant role in the continued use of traditional plant-based remedies. The study concludes that while medicinal plants offer a valuable alternative or complementary treatment for diabetes, disparities in healthcare access due to socioeconomic factors need to be addressed to improve diabetes care and management. Keywords: Socioeconomic factors, medicinal plants, diabetes, income, education, healthcare access, traditional medicine.