AIMS:
To explore public knowledge and perceptions of the efficacy, safety and reason to consume herbal beverages including ginseng tea, gingko biloba tea and tongka ali tea.

METHOD:
This study was conducted in the state of Penang in June 2007. Participants were recruited at random; respondents were interviewed using a 19 item questionnaire. Non- parametric statistics was applied to analyse the data.

RESULTS:
Four hundred participants were recruited. Most of the respondents 228(57.0%) were habitual consumers of herbal beverages. 249(62.25%) respondents believed that herbal beverages improved their health status. 193(48.25%) believed that herbal beverages boost the energy level of user and 120(30.0%) used them to prevent diseases. 300(75%) respondents agreed with the statement that herbal beverages are safe to use and that they have less side effect than conventional medicines available on the market. Female respondents were more likely to report using herbal beverages for slimming 78(19.5%) and for cosmetic purposes 74(18.5%). However, the use of herbal beverages to boost energy levels was more frequent among male respondents.  Respondents aged 18 – 25 years were significantly more likely to report the use of herbal beverages to prevent coughs and flu.

CONCLUSION:
This potentially ill advised and dangerous consumption of herbal beverages may delay appropriate help seeking for various medical illnesses. In addition lack of knowledge about the side effects of herbal beverages may put users at risk of side effects.