Traditional and complementary health practices in the shadow of modern medicine: a qualitative study of users’ perceptions and experiences

Abstract Objective This study aims to explore individuals’ motivations and experiences regarding traditional, complementary and integrative medicine (TCIM), their perceptions of these practices in relation to modern medicine, and their views on their integration into the modern healthcare system. Method This study was conducted using the phenomenological design, one of the qualitative research methods. Within the scope of the research, 20 participants who had experienced at least one TCIM practice were included using purposive and snowball sampling methods. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using a semi-structured interview form, and the obtained data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings The analysis identified 5 main themes and 23 subthemes. The findings indicate that health-based motivations play a primary role in participants’ orientation toward TCIM applications. These motivations include disease prevention, disease treatment, and strengthening immunity. However, the failure to achieve the expected benefits from modern medical treatments, reservations about medication use, religious and cultural beliefs, and the influence of family and social environments also rank among the determining factors. Additionally, participants’ belief that the practices will be beneficial and their expectations of psychological relief emerge as key factors supporting the use of TCIM. Conclusion The findings suggest that participants’ engagement with TCIM was shaped not only by health-related needs but also by psychological, social, and cultural factors. Participants viewed TCIM and modern medicine as complementary rather than competing approaches and expressed support for their integration within the healthcare system. They emphasized the importance of scientific evidence, professional supervision, and accessibility in such integration.