Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p>Background Herbal medicine is widely used in Palestine. However, concerns remain regarding its safety, efficacy, and integration into conventional medicine. Limited communication between patients and healthcare professionals may increase the risk of herb–drug interactions and inappropriate use. This study evaluated the prevalence of herbal medicine use, safety beliefs, and consultation behavior among adults in the West Bank. Methods A cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted in November 2025 among 403 adults aged 18–64 years. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling using online platforms. Data were collected using an expert-validated questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices of herbal medicine. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression identified predictors of consultation with healthcare professionals before herbal medicine use. Results Herbal medicine use was reported by 96.5% of participants, mainly for digestive (58.6%) and respiratory (52.6%) conditions. Nearly half (48.4%) believed herbal remedies have fewer adverse effects than conventional medicines. However, 43.2% did not consult a healthcare professional before use, and 65.3% had never discussed herbal medicine with a physician. Consultation behavior was significantly associated with perceptions of herbal safety and confidence in healthcare professionals' knowledge (p < 0.05). Regression analysis showed that believing herbal medicines have fewer adverse effects (OR = 1.604, p = 0.001) and perceiving healthcare professionals as knowledgeable (p = 0.027) independently predicted consultation behavior. Conclusions Herbal medicine use is highly prevalent among Palestinian adults. Improving health literacy, patient–provider communication, and regulatory oversight is essential to promote safe herbal medicine use and reduce preventable healthcare risks.</p>