Percepção dos moradores de Socorro do Piauí sobre o uso medicinal do melão-de-são-caetano (Momordica charantia L.)

Abstract

Melon-of-São-Caetano (Momordica charantia L.) is a medicinal plant that has great therapeutic potential, being used for several diseases. The herb is listed in the National List of Medicinal Plants of Interest to SUS (RENISUS). In this context, the objective is to carry out a survey on the perception of residents of Socorro do Piauí on the medicinal use of Melão-de-São-Caetano (Momordica charantia L.). The methodology used was a public opinion survey, with a quali quantitative nature, where data were collected through a structured electronic questionnaire with nine questions, linked to the Google Forms digital platform. Data were tabulated using the Microsoft Office Excel 2019 program and the results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, expressed in absolute numbers and relative frequencies, presented in the form of graphs and tables. In the results, it is highlighted that the plant is widely used in the community, where a total of 88.4% of people use the vegetable, and 4.7% of people had allergic reactions after consumption. Among the diseases and symptoms mentioned in the answers, the following stand out: diabetes, flu, skin diseases, kidney stones and gynecological problems. Regarding the parts of the plant that are used for the production of herbal medicines, the leaf was highlighted and its consumption is mainly for the preparation of tea. It is concluded that the Melão-de-São Caetano is used by the population of the municipality and that this practice derives mainly from popular knowledge. However, it is necessary that municipal health agencies direct actions informing about its use correctly so that adverse reactions are minimized.