Perspectives and challenges in the insertion of the practice of medicinal plants and phytotherapy in the daily routine of Primary Health Care

Abstract

The National Policy Integrative and Complementary Practices (PNPIC) encourages the expansion of treatment options. The challenge of this study was to promote the insertion of medicinal plants and herbal medicines in primary health care. After training with 32 professionals, questionnaires and interviews were used to clarify the perceptions of the insertion of this practice in the units. 100% of professionals believed in the therapeutic effect of plants, but 63% did not know about PNPIC. It has been clarified that this therapy presents efficacy and risks as allopathic medicines. Mental health problems, gastric disorders, and chronic pain have been reported. It was possible to realize that there is interest in the practice, but lack security to prescribe relating problems of access to plants, herbal medicines, and infrastructure. Organizing intersectoral actions can minimize implementation difficulties.