USE OF MEDICINAL PLANTS IN THE TREATMENT AND PREVENTION OF DISEASES WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THE BRAZILIAN UNIFIED HEALTH SYSTEM (SUS)

Abstract

This study aimed to identify, systematize, and analyze scientific evidence on the use of medicinal plants and phytotherapy within the context of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), with an emphasis on Primary Health Care (PHC), the prevention and treatment of health conditions, and the articulation between traditional knowledge, scientific evidence, and public policies. This is an integrative literature review conducted between January and March 2025 using the SciELO, LILACS, and PubMed databases. Articles published between 2014 and 2024, in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, with free and full-text access, and addressing the use of medicinal plants within the SUS or PHC were considered. Initially, 238 records were identified; after screening titles and abstracts, 74 studies were selected for full-text assessment, and 50 comprised the final sample. The synthesis revealed the recurrent presence of medicinal plants and phytotherapeutic products in healthcare practices, particularly in Primary Health Care settings and rural and peripheral communities, as well as potential benefits related to self-care, health promotion, and the appreciation of traditional knowledge. Limitations related to professional training, standardization of practices, availability of evidence, and the organization of health services were also identified. It is concluded that the integration of phytotherapy into the SUS requires rational use, safety, quality, continuing professional education, and articulation between scientific knowledge and traditional knowledge, without replacing conventional therapies when clinically indicated.