subject: Market Research Indicates That 54% Take Herbal Or Homeopathic Supplements [print this page] Americans spend billions of dollars every year on herbal supplements and their use is growing steadily. Many use supplements because they believe they are safe and all natural. It seems that people want to increase their energy, lose weight, and boost their immune system to name a few. In a recent consumer survey conducted by Persuadable Research Corporation, 54% of respondents answered "yes" when asked if they currently take herbal or homeopathic supplements.
Among users of herbal or homeopathic supplements, 29% claimed to be completely satisfied with the supplements they take, while 43% stated that they were somewhat satisfied. Given that the majority of users are satisfied with herbs and supplements, it appears that supplements are here to stay, even though 39% of the respondents believed that those supplements were not approved by the FDA. Moreover, 45% agreed that there was a lack of physician recommendation. So what motivates people to take herbal supplements given these statements?
It appears that consumers are drawn to supplements because they believe they are all natural and safe to take. 76% believe that they have fewer side effects than prescription or synthetic man made medications. 69% think that supplements are mild on the body, and 67% state that there are no harmful chemicals involved. Respondents stated that the supplements "provide nutrients," or they "make you more energetic."
Perhaps, there are other reasons why consumers are choosing herbal supplements. It may be the rising cost of health care or that many are underinsured or not insured at all. Others might think that they have not gotten relief from various ailments by going to their doctors, and have turned to herbal remedies instead. Still others may believe that herbs and supplements can extend or improve their quality of life by staving off the aging process or boosting the immune system. Whatever the reason people are selecting supplements, it is clear that, even without FDA approval or doctor recommendation, over half of the population is taking some form of herbal or homeopathic supplements.
