THE USE OF PHYTOTHERAPY MEDICINES AS AN AID IN THE TREATMENT OF OBESITY: INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The lack of physical activity and consumption of unhealthy foods has contributed to an increase in the number of cases of obesity. The number of obese people has increased by 67.8% compared to the last thirteen years. The introduction of herbal medicines as an aid to fight this disease is still little discussed, although it is efficient in many cases. OBJECTIVE: To define scientifically proven herbal medicines that help with weight loss and obesity control. METHODOLOGY: The study is an integrative review based on articles and available literature on the use of herbal medicines in the treatment of obesity, using the database SciELO, PubMed, LILACS and the Periódicos CAPES. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: There is a scarcity of studies in the area of herbal medicines, causing self-medication by individuals whose medicinal plant is part of the culture. It is always necessary to have a professional accompaniment.