Summary of Uso adecuado de plantas medicinales

Key Wellness Strategies, Self-Care Techniques, and Productivity Tips on the Proper Use of Medicinal Plants

• Understanding Medicinal Plants vs. Plant Drugs vs. Phytotherapy:
  • Medicinal Plants refer to the whole plant, but therapeutically only specific parts (roots, leaves, flowers) are used, called "plant drugs."
  • Phytotherapy involves standardized extracts with known concentrations of active ingredients, allowing precise dosing.
  • Natural products can be raw plant parts or processed forms (teas, capsules, ointments).
• Traditional Use vs. Popular Use:
  • Traditional use is defined by at least 30 years of consistent use with:
    • Same plant (scientific identification)
    • Same plant part used
    • Same preparation method (infusion, decoction, etc.)
    • Same dosage
    • Same therapeutic indication
  • Popular use is often spontaneous, anecdotal, or commercialized without scientific backing and can be risky.
• Safety and Toxicity:
  • All substances, including plants and water, can be toxic depending on the dose.
  • Therapeutic index is crucial: the margin between a beneficial dose and a toxic dose.
  • Example: Star Anise is effective for colic but can be toxic if overdosed.
  • Natural does not mean safe; overdosing or misuse can cause poisoning or death.
  • Pregnant women should avoid Medicinal Plants due to risks like spontaneous abortion.
  • Children require special caution due to sensitivity to active ingredients.
• Interactions with Synthetic Medications:
  • Medicinal Plants can potentiate or inhibit the effects of pharmaceutical drugs.
  • This can lead to treatment failure or dangerous side effects (e.g., diabetic coma).
  • Always consult a healthcare provider before combining plants with medications.
  • Medicinal Plants should only be used for minor ailments or as complementary treatments, not for serious or life-threatening conditions.
• Best Practices for Preparation and Use:
  • Identify the plant correctly by its scientific name.
  • Use organically grown plants free of chemicals.
  • Clean utensils and preparation area thoroughly.
  • Wash hands and plant parts before use.
  • Prepare fresh treatments each time; if storing, refrigerate and use within 24 hours.
  • Follow traditional preparation methods strictly (infusion vs. decoction).
  • Do not eat or smoke during preparation.
  • For topical applications, clean the affected area with soap and boiled water before applying remedies.
  • Dry plants in shade and ventilated places to preserve properties; avoid sun drying.
• Common Medicinal Plants in Costa Rica:
  • Sour Orange (for nerves)
  • Chamomile (gastrointestinal issues, muscle relaxation)
  • Cat’s Claw (immune support but not a cure for serious diseases)
  • Awareness that plants with similar popular names may differ in effects and toxicity.
• Educational Resources:
  • Caribbean Plant Pharmacopoeia: A detailed guide for health professionals including active ingredients and mechanisms.
  • Smaller educational brochures available for the general public to promote safe and effective use.

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Presenters / Sources

• María del Mar Sedano (Host)
• Saúl Aguilar (Host)
• Mildred García González, Professor, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Costa Rica
• Organization of Tropical Studies, University of Costa Rica
• Research group on traditional popular medicine in Caribbean countries

Category

Wellness and Self-Improvement

Video