Evaluation of the Use of Herbs, Spices, and Supplements in the Hispanic/Latino/Latina Population in Kokomo, Indiana, U.S.A.

Although the Hispanic/Latino/Latina immigrant population group has been documented to use a higher number of herbs, spices and supplements, research findings on this topic are still insufficient. This study aimed to evaluate the supplements chosen by Hispanic/Latino/Latina immigrants in relation to their evidence for use in the literature as well as the number of herbs and spices used. This cross-sectional study utilized convenience sampling to survey 62 Hispanic/Latino/Latina immigrants in central Indiana. The research collected data regarding herbs and spice consumption, supplement usage and beliefs, therapeutic diet practices, disease history, and food frequency information. Dietary supplement use was more prevalent among females and individuals with a high school education. A statistically significant difference between male and female participants was observed regarding the use of green tea supplements, as well as all herbal products and single vitamins combined (p <.001). Significant associations were also found when comparing individuals with bone and joint (p =.030), cardiovascular (p =.024), gastrointestinal (p =.031), and endocrine diseases (p =.020) to those adhering to a special diet. There was a lack of evidence supporting supplement use based on research findings. These results suggest for the need of supplement and therapeutic diet use education in the Hispanic/Latino/Latina population residing in the United States. Further research is needed to advance these findings.