Abstract

Background:
Lepidium sativum (garden cress) is a plant known for its health and nutritional benefits. Although many people use it in traditional medicine. This study assessed knowledge, attitude and utility of Lepidium Stavium among adults in Saudi Western Region
Methods:
This study used a survey to collect data from 477 adults living in the Saudi western region between January and June 2024. The online questionnaire inquired about participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to garden cress. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software. Basic statistics and tests were used to find patterns and statistical relationships between knowledge and personal factors.
Results:
Most participants (78.4%, n=374) had heard of garden cress, but only (21%, n= 100) showed good knowledge about its benefits. Most people had a positive view of herbal medicine, yet many used garden cress without proper guidance. The majority (61.4%, n= 293) had used it, but most (79.5%, n= 233) decided the dose themselves and did not ask a doctor (77.5%, n= 227). Better knowledge was seen among those with higher education, previous utilization, or those who got their information from scientific sources.
Conclusion:
Although garden cress is widely used, many people do not know enough about it or use it safely. Public health efforts are needed to raise awareness and support safe use of herbal remedies.

Key words: Garden cress, Lepidium sativum, herbal medicine, knowledge