THE KNOWLEDGE AND USE OF MEDICINAL PLANTS BY USERS OF PRIMARY HEALTHCARE FACILITIES IN COLOMBO, PR

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the knowledge on the use of medicinal plants by frequent users of Primary Healthcare Facilities (PHF) in Colombo, PR. Material and Methods: Adult users of both sexes from four PHF were interviewed using a structured questionnaire between May and June 2016. Results: A total of 101 PHF users were interviewed. Of these, 72.28% reported using medicinal plants, most of them being female, with a mean age of 39 years. The plant species most frequently cited were chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.), followed by mint (Mentha spicata L.) and lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus L.), and the most common indications were soothing, followed by stomach disorders. Approximately 70% of the respondents who use medicinal plants reported that they cultivate the plants themselves for consumption, and that the knowledge of the therapeutic purpose comes from the family. Among the 30 plants cited by respondents, most of them are listed in the National List of Medicinal Plants of Interest to the Brazilian Healthcare System (SUS, RENISUS); in the Phytotherapic Form; and in the Phytotherapic Memento of the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia. Conclusion: It is concluded that users understand that medicinal plants help in therapy as an adjunct in the treatment of several diseases. DESCRIPTORS: Phytotherapy. Medicinal plants. Complementary Therapies. Public Health.