Farmácia viva e o efeito de plantas medicinais no sistema único de saúde (SUS)

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of medicinal plants within the scope of the Living Pharmacy (Farmácia Viva) program, integrated into the Complementary and Integrative Practices (CIP) of Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS). Farmácia Viva is a public policy initiative that incorporates the use of medicinal plants into SUS, promoting access to phytotherapy treatments grounded in traditional and scientific knowledge. The methodology employed was an integrative literature review covering articles published between 2017 and 2024, focusing on therapeutic efficacy, cost-effectiveness, safety, and acceptance of medicinal plants in SUS. The search was conducted in databases such as CAPES, LILACS, and ColecionaSUS, using the descriptors “integrative practices,” “living pharmacy,” and “Unified Health System.” Key findings show that Farmácias Vivas offer an effective and economically viable therapeutic alternative, particularly in regions with limited access to allopathic medications. However, challenges such as lack of process standardization and the need for greater professional training were highlighted. Public acceptance of phytotherapy is high, emphasizing the importance of public policies that encourage local production of medicinal plants. The study concludes that strengthening and expanding Farmácia Viva in Brazil requires continuous investment in training, research, and regulation, along with fostering the integration of scientific and traditional knowledge.