Avaliação do conhecimento e percepção dos profissionais da estratégia de saúde da família sobre o uso de plantas medicinais e fitoterapia em Petrolina-PE, Brasil

Abstract

This study aimed to determine if the top-level professionals of the Strategy of Health of the Family, perceive the importance, use and indications of phytotherapy and Medicinal Plants. This is a cross-sectional, exploratory and descriptive study, with the participation 96 professionals serving in the family health strategy units. Data were collected through individual interviews in a semi-structured questionnaire. For statistical analysis, we used the Pearson Chi-square test. The most cited medicinal plants were the Boldo (Plectranthus barbatus A.) and Chamomile (Matricaria recutita L.). The phytotherapics were indicated only for 5 (5.2%) physicians and the most cited were Guaco® and Maracugina®. 36 (37.5%) of the professionals think are not prepared to pass on the information about the use of medicinal plants and only 35 (36.5%) feel prepared to prescribe phytotherapy. One observes the need for training and motivation of these professionals for the correct and safe use of Medicinal Plants and phytotherapy.