The use of medicinal herbs on the urban área of Montes Claros - MG: reflexions from the population assisted by the family health strategy of the Morrinhos neighborhood

Abstract

To know the possible uses of medicinal herbs by the population assisted by the Family Health Strategy (Estratégia de Saúde da Família – ESF), in the micro--area 01, of meso-area II, of the Morrinhos neighborhood in Montes Claros - MG. On methodology, an extensive bibliography research was performed, using books, journals and articles that discuss about use of medicinal plants. Qualitative and quantitative research was adopted, using also application of semi-structured questionnaires, randomly applied to 25% of families in the micro-area. From the data, was possible to draw the profile of the studied population, identify families using medicinal plants often and what are the species most used and their applications. It was found that most
plants are prepared in the form of teas and cultivated home, where knowledge about the use and preparation are obtained from family and neighborhood. The species are popularly used and have scientifically proved healing properties, requiring proper orientation on use and cultivation. The survey provided an opportunity to know about the use of medicinal plants, 63% of the interviewed families use them, which is significant. However, much use is made by the elderly and without expert guidance by agents of ESF or other competent professionals.