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Original Article
- A Survey-Based Cross-Sectional Study of Traditional Knowledge and Contemporary Use of Macedonian Wild Thyme Within Integrative Medicine
- Denis Arsovski
- Perspect Integr Med. 2026;5(2):108-117. Published online June 19, 2026
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2026.06.004
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Graphical Abstract
Abstract
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Supplementary Material 
- Background
Thymus serpyllum (wild thyme) is an important ethnobotanical species in North Macedonia, where it is widely used in traditional medicine.
Methods
This descriptive cross-sectional survey study explored patterns of thyme usage, knowledge sources, and collection practices amongst 182 participants from all eight regions of the country. Statistical analyses included the χ² test, Kruskal-Wallis, and exploratory cluster analysis.
Results
Most of the participants reported using thyme as a tea (89.6%) to treat respiratory conditions (57.7%), followed by stress-related complaints (24.7%), and preventive purposes (22.0%). Family traditions were the main source of knowledge (37.4%), whilst internet resources and combined sources were more common amongst younger and highly educated participants. Nearly half of the participants (47.8%) reported collecting thyme themselves mainly from mountainous areas, with regional differences in collection behavior (p < 0.05). Statistical analyses showed a heterogeneous user of wild thyme profile which ranged from traditional self-collectors relying on intergenerational knowledge to urban consumers influenced by digital information and acquisition through markets. Qualitative responses confirmed the persistence of word of mouth and various therapeutic applications, especially for respiratory and gastrointestinal complaints.
Conclusion
Whilst the use of thyme remains culturally ingrained and widely accepted as a complementary remedy, reliance on wild harvesting raises sustainability concerns and clinical validation for several indications remains limited. These results show the continuing relevance of wild thyme in contemporary ethnomedicine and point to the need for integrative approaches combining cultural heritage preservation, ecological sustainability, and evidence-based evaluation.
Review Article
- The Role of Animal Assisted Therapy in the Rehabilitation of Mental Health Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review
- Denis Arsovski
- Perspect Integr Med. 2024;3(3):142-151. Published online October 23, 2024
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2024.10.003
- 65,535 View
- 1,983 Download
- 10 Citations
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Graphical Abstract
Abstract
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- Mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and schizophrenia significantly reduce the daily functioning and quality of life of individuals. Traditional treatments often fall short, thus opening interest in complementary therapies like animal assisted therapy (AAT) which encourages the human-animal bond and gives emotional and psychological support. This review evaluated the efficacy of AAT in treating mental health disorders, and understanding its mechanisms and benefits. A comprehensive literature review was conducted (using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate) focused on peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews and meta-analyses published in the last 2 decades. Studies indicated that AAT improved mental health outcomes for people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and schizophrenia. Interaction with therapy animals reduced cortisol levels, increased oxytocin, lowered blood pressure, and increased social engagement and emotional regulation. Benefits included reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and improved social functioning and quality of life. AAT offered a complementary treatment for mental health disorders, providing emotional comfort, improving mood, and serving as a nonpharmacological option for individuals. However, challenges such as individual preferences, allergies, ethical concerns for therapy animals, and logistical issues must be addressed. Future research should focus on the long-term effects and mechanisms involved to optimize the application of AAT in the clinical setting, and alternatives like robotic companion pets could also be explored.
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Citations
Citations to this article as recorded by
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