Knowledge about medicinal plants by women in aging process

Abstract

This study objective was to evaluate the knowledge on the species and indication of medicinal plants used by women in the aging process. It is a cross-sectional, quantitative study, linked to research “multidimensional study of women in the aging process.” Data collection was carried out in the homes of the participants, by applying a questionnaire and the collection of plant material for botanical identification. The 84 participants, 94% were using of medicinal plant to treat diseases and 56% in mate as flavoring that is a characteristic drink of the southern region, prepared with ground grass mate and hot water. It was realized the identification of 148 medicinal plants of 23 families and 47 different species have been identified. Of these, 20 species were appropriate according to the literature, 12 species were partially adequate, 10 species were inadequate and 5 species were found in the surveyed bibliographies. It was found that many species are at odds with the literature regarding the use indicated by participants, which indicates the need for guidance to those users of the public health service regarding the use and toxicity of medicinal plants.

Keywords

• Conhecimento
• Estratégia saúde da família
• Plantas medicinais