Use of medicinal plants by primary care elderly

Abstract

Our study objective was to verify the use of medicinal plants by elderly users of the primary care. The study has a cross-sectional, correlational, analytical and descriptive design with a quantitative approach. It was carried out in the west of Paraná state, in 2016. We applied 252 questionnaires with socio-demographic information and questions about the use of medicinal plants. Our results showed that 72.22% of elderly use plants, and of the most cited ones, Peppermint, Lemon Grass, Boldo and Rosemary were noteworthy. Elderly report to use them because they are better for healing, they prefer them, and it does not harm. There was disagreement regarding the recommendations, where 36.81% does not recommend them for fear to cause harm. About toxicity, they reported adverse events that are not found in the scientific literature. We highlight the importance of a correct guidance regarding the toxicity of some plants, as well as their benefits, and the importance of the nurse in this context acting as a health promoter.