Knowledge assessment and perception of professionals of the family health strategy on the use of medicinal plants and phytotherapy in Petrolina, PE, Brazil.

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.

Keywords
medicinal plants; phytotherapy; family health