Unlocking Nature's Secrets for Athletic Performance Excellence: Herbal Supplement Utilization Among Young Palestinian Soccer Athletes

Abstract

Abstract Background: Herbal supplements have gained popularity among athletes and individuals engaged in sports who seek natural methods to enhance performance and well-being. This study offers unique insights into the diverse herbal supplement practices among athletes, particularly Palestinian soccer players, providing valuable perspectives on optimizing physical performance. Methods: In 2023, a cross-sectional study was conducted in the West Bank of Palestine, with 155 participants, representing 64.58% of Palestinian soccer athletes. The research meticulously documented the herbal supplements used, including herb names, plant parts, preparation techniques, intended purposes, and information sources. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel, focusing on frequencies and percentages. Use values (UV) were computed to assess the relative importance of each herb species. Results: The study achieved a robust 93.94% response rate, with 144 athletes confirming herbal supplement usage. These athletes, primarily aged 18-25 (mean age 20.34), exhibited versatility in employing various techniques for supplement preparation and consumption. Information sources varied, with a reliance on traditional knowledge, advice from herbalists (known as "Attar" in Arabic), and emerging online trends. Athletes mainly turned to botanical supplements for enhancing physical endurance and strength, alleviating joint and muscle discomfort, and stimulating the central nervous system. Calculated use values underscored the significance of these practices within the Palestinian cultural context. A total of 1675 recommendations were recorded, with the top 10 recommended herbs, including ginseng, small nettle, olive, date, chili pepper, green tea, fenugreek, soy, coffee, and mate, receiving about 55% of all recommendations. Conclusion: This ethnopharmacological study unveils herbal supplement practices among Palestinian soccer athletes, drawing from traditional knowledge and diverse information sources. It identifies the top 10 recommended herbs, offering practical insights for sports professionals and athletes. The study serves as a foundation for future ethnopharmacological research and underscores the importance of evaluating information sources. Further investigations in this domain are warranted.