THE LIVING PHARMACY AND THE USE OF MEDICINAL PLANTS

PERSPECTIVES FOR STRENGTHENING INTEGRATED HEALTHCARE

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The use of medicinal plants remains strongly present in Brazilian culture, constituting a traditional and complementary practice to healthcare. The Living Pharmacy, a public policy instituted by the Ministry of Health, seeks to guarantee safe access to medicinal plants and phytotherapeutic products within the Unified Health System (SUS), articulating popular and scientific knowledge. This study aimed to analyze the community's knowledge and perceptions regarding the use of medicinal plants, the Living Pharmacy, and initiatives such as medicinal gardens. This is a descriptive and exploratory study, with a quantitative-qualitative approach, conducted through an online questionnaire (Google Forms) containing closed and open questions. Fifty-six respondents participated, predominantly young people aged 18 to 29 (66.1%), female (64.3%), and with completed secondary or higher education. The majority stated that they use medicinal plants (73.2%), mainly for digestive problems, colds, pain, and anxiety, learning primarily through family tradition (85.7%). Despite frequent use, 41.1% were unaware of the Living Pharmacy program, and only 8.9% had received products from the program. Trust in plants was high (89.3%), and 83.9% expressed interest in participating in educational activities, preferring online videos and practical workshops. A lack of knowledge about local medicinal gardens was observed (87.5%), although most recognize their importance and benefits, such as free access to plants and the preservation of traditional knowledge. It is concluded that the population values ​​the use of medicinal plants but still has gaps in knowledge about the Living Pharmacy program, indicating the need for educational initiatives, strengthening public policies, and establishing community spaces to promote safe and sustainable use.

Keywords: Living Pharmacy, Medicinal Plants, Folk Knowledge.