Plantas medicinais utilizadas para dismenorreia no povoado Espinheiro, Remanso - BA.

Abstract

Dysmenorrhea is one of the most frequent problems presented by women, and can be caused by premenstrual tension, in addition to having consequences both during the menstrual period and throughout reproductive life. Some medicinal plants can have beneficial effects on women's health, such as helping to regulate menstruation, relieve cramps, combat menopausal symptoms and prevent gynecological diseases. Therefore, the use of medicinal plants to relieve symptoms combined with popular knowledge is a common therapeutic practice among women. In this context, the research aimed to gather information about the popular knowledge acquired by women regarding the use of vegetables in managing the symptoms of dysmenorrhea. The methodology corresponded to a cross-sectional, qualitative-quantitative and descriptive study, whose sample follow-up was inhabitants of the village Espinheiro, located in the rural area of the municipality of Remanso - BA. Information was collected through the application of questionnaires with socio-epidemiological questions and on the use of medicinal plants to treat dysmenorrhea. The sample was composed of 28 women, with ages ranging from 21 to 69 years and a prevalent age group between 41 and 60 years (50%) and primary education (50%), 75% were retired, with income of up to 3 minimum wages. and up to 3 guests per residence. All interviewees reported using more than one plant to relieve dysmenorrhea symptoms. 29 plants

were mentioned, with emphasis on mint (n=19), rue (n=14), lemon balm and umburana-de- cheiro (n=12), quitoco and wormwood (n=10). The leaves were the most used part and tea was

the only form of preparation mentioned. Thus, there was a predominance of therapeutic use of medicinal plants to alleviate symptoms. Around 17.9% of those interviewed stated that they used synthetic medicines concomitantly. Considering plant species as the main therapeutic option for the dysmenorrhea condition, this research importance is highlighted for the conservation and valorization of popular knowledge and the urgency of implementing strategies to promote the rational use of medicinal plants is highlighted, as per provided for in the National Policy on Medicinal Plants and Phytotherapeutics.