Popular knowledge: the use of medicinal plants as therapeutic form in health care

Abstract

Aim: to know the knowledge and practices of inhabitants of the urban region of northwestern Rio Grande do Sul, which makes use of medicinal plants as a therapeutic way in health care. Method: qualitative research, an exploratory and descriptive study, with data collection based on semi-structured interviews and participant observation. Total of ten respondents, users of medicinal plants, selected through the network of social relations. The collection took place from July to September 2011. Results: From the thematic analysis, emerged the themes: types of plants and their indications; who indicated the use of the plant. Final Thoughts: most popular indications is compatible with science and knowledge is passed from generation to generation. Therefore, it is considered to be essential that the nurse inserts himself in the community to know or recognize the popular practices, approaching the scientific knowledge, providing complete care to users, respecting their habits and customs.