The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly impacted which topics our users want to learn about most. This remained consistent throughout 2022. Here’s a quick summary of our most popular topics.
Our top viewed monograph in 2022 was turmeric. Interest in turmeric has been steady pre- and post-pandemic. Some of the most recent evidence about turmeric involves its potential use in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Curcumin, a chemical in turmeric, reduces markers of liver injury in people who have this condition. It might also help prevent fat build-up in the liver.
Remaining strong in second place was ashwagandha. Ashwagandha continues to pop up in the headlines and climb supplement sales charts after its popularity soared at the beginning of the pandemic. It’s considered an adaptogen, which is a class of natural substances that are believed to stimulate the body’s resistance to physical, environmental, and emotional stressors. There’s interest in using it for a variety of conditions –and multiple early studies are starting to indicate that it might improve sleep quality and reduce stress in some people.
Melatonin took third place. It’s no surprise that this ingredient remains of interest. The pandemic caused significant sleeping problems for many, which led to more consumers buying sleeping aids, including melatonin. Melatonin use in children and the potential for overdose became a serious concern throughout last year. Educating patients about the appropriate use of these products is crucial.
Rounding out our top 5 were magnesium and zinc. And interestingly, CBD didn’t make it to the top 20 for the first time in several years. We look forward to another year of providing our users with the highest quality, evidence-based data on natural medicines. We always welcome suggestions for new topics – feel free to reach out to our editors with your ideas!
The information in this brief report is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions. Copyright © 2024 NatMed. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited. NatMed is the leading provider of high-quality, evidence-based, clinically-relevant information on natural medicine, dietary supplements, herbs, vitamins, minerals, functional foods, diets, complementary practices, CAM modalities, exercises and medical conditions. Monograph sections include interactions with herbs, drugs, foods and labs, contraindications, depletions, dosing, toxicology, adverse effects, pregnancy and lactation data, synonyms, safety and effectiveness.
