Modern beliefs regarding medicinal plants in Estonia

Ain Raal, Pärtel Relve and Marju Kõivupuu

Journal of Baltic Studies, 2018, vol. 49, issue 3, 387-403

Abstract: The popularity of using herbal cures in twenty-first century Estonia has several reasons. Estonians are familiar with nature, and many collect berries, mushrooms, and potherbs. Herb collecting in general is a part of the local heritage. There are private enterprises in Estonia dealing with the cultivation and sale of herbs. Herbs can be bought from grocery stores, markets, and pharmacies. Even medical doctors can recommend herbal treatments for mild illnesses.This article reviews which herbal beliefs are held among modern Estonians and how this fits with global trends characterized by a growing strive toward the natural lifestyle also evident in health behavior and an attitude toward pharmaceutical companies as businesses who prioritize income above welfare. We will analyze how herbal beliefs reflect people’s religious views, educational background, sex and age. The empirical base of the study consists of the responses of 1,205 randomly selected subjects, of whom 650 were interviewed face to face in six different areas of Estonia and 555 replied to a survey online. The core of the questionnaire consisted of opinions on ten general herbal beliefs. In addition, respondents were asked their opinions on natural and synthetic medicines and reasons for herbal healing effects.

Date: 2018
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DOI: 10.1080/01629778.2018.1453851

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