Saberes tradicionais e o uso de plantas medicinais: estudo com idosos da UNABI/Uema sobre a transmissão do conhecimento

Abstract

The use of medicinal plants is an ancestral practice, particularly preserved by the elderly population, who maintain this knowledge through oral tradition, thereby constituting an important cultural heritage and a holistic form of healthcare. However, this practice often occurs without professional guidance, highlighting the need for a greater understanding, recognition, and appreciation of this knowledge. This study aimed to understand the use of medicinal plants and traditional knowledge among elderly participants of UNABI/MA, valuing the insights gained over a lifetime and passed down through generations. This exploratory, descriptive study involved 30 elderly participants who completed questionnaires. The results revealed that 93% use medicinal plants in their daily lives, demonstrating that these practices remain vibrant even amidst the advancements of modern medicine. The most common preparation methods involve teas and herbal syrups—remedies learned primarily through family oral tradition, with 71% of participants stating they learned from parents or other close relatives. Furthermore, 70% cultivate these plants at home, reinforcing their connection to nature and their autonomy in healthcare. Many also reported turning to plants before seeking medical attention, underscoring their trust in this traditional knowledge. These findings highlight the importance of recognizing and preserving such practices, which embody memories, affection, and cultural resilience in the face of the transformations of the contemporary world