VIDE PLANTA: DESENVOLVIMENTO DE UM APLICATIVO MÓVEL PARA IDENTIFICAÇÃO E ORIENTAÇÃO NO USO CORRETO DE PLANTAS MEDICINAIS

Abstract

The practice of using medicinal plants as treatment for various diseases is ancient and present in many cultures. However, the lack of a categorized and accessible information system for the public about medicinal plants hinders the correct dissemination of knowledge regarding their therapeutic efficacy, toxicity, adverse effects, and drug interactions, among other relevant aspects. Furthermore, inappropriate commercialization and use pose a health risk, especially those based on popular or traditional knowledge, which often need more scientific foundation and accuracy. In Brazil, despite the vast biodiversity, little is known about the native plants of Brazilian biomes due to the scarcity of studies, impeding the dissemination of knowledge about their efficacy and potential toxicity. Thus, the present work developed a mobile application on medicinal plants, based on pharmacobotanical studies, the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia, Phytotherapic Memento, a guide of medicinal plants by ANVISA, and reliable scientific studies. Initially, the development of the application was carried out in partnership with the junior company Mega Júnior; for the internal content, a compilation of the medicinal plants database was conducted, where a survey of data based on official compendiums and the standardization of information from selected plants were performed. Additionally, the application utilizes an accessible and easy-to-use identification tool. The Vide planta application is intuitive, with accessible language, and allows the insertion of information by different researchers, contributing to the promotion of health, and disease prevention. Expanding the population's knowledge about medicinal plants, correct usage, dosage, and encouraging the conscious and responsible use of medicinal plants. We hope that the developed application contributes to the conscious and responsible use of natural resources, making medicinal plants a safe and effective alternative in the treatment of various ailments.