THE RELEVANCE OF EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL IN UNIVERSITY EXTENSION: REPORTS ON THE USE OF PHYTOTHERAPY IN DENTISTRY

Abstract

Introduction: Phytotherapy is characterized by the use of medicinal plants that have different pharmaceutical forms, which is being disseminated in the health strategy by the National Policy for Integrative and Complementary Practices program. It consists of an accessible resource for communities due to its low cost, easy handling, wide availability and good popular acceptance. Due to this context, the aim of this paper is to address the planning, construction and use of educational material on herbal medicine in face-to-face actions developed in the waiting room for dental care. Methodology: Descriptive study based on the experience report of the actions developed by the University Extension Project "Fitosaber - building a new care", highlighting the production of educational material on Phytotherapy and Aromatherapy, as well as its application during the actions developed between July 2021 and December 2022. Results: The project addressed the use of medicinal plants from local vegetation or easily found in commerce, which could be applied for frequent oral pathologies in the population. Informative materials were continuously built with summarized texts, containing simple and accessible language, associated with the use of illustrations. The art of the material drew attention to the theme, promoting a better understanding of the reader and familiarization with the topics addressed. The graphic material developed was printed in high quality and with bright colors, which helped highlight the themes addressed. Conclusions: The educational material on herbal medicine and aromatherapy developed by the Fitosaber extension project was relevant in consolidating the knowledge and application of these practices in the daily lives of the assisted population.