Plants that heal: experiences of those who use them in the Amazon region of Pará

Abstract

The study assessed the interaction between people and therapeutic plants in the traditional pharmacopoeia in different contexts of healing and religiosity. Homegardens in the towns of Abaetetuba and Vigia, and stands at the market, Feira da 25 de Setembro, in the city of Belém, PA, were investigated. The methodology included conducting semi-structured interviews and photographic records to analyze the cultural and religious value aggregated to plants and their use in the tradition of these populations. The use of 50 species of therapeutic plants was identified, 29 at Feira da 25, 11 in Abaetetuba and 19 in Vigia. There is a greater diversity of species at Feira da 25 and the demand is related to mystical rituals. The species mucuracaá, catinga de mulata, rosemary and basil are frequently used in ritual works for spiritual protection. In the homegardens, residents expressed spiritual and affective connections, wherein the plants have sacred meanings in addition to transmitting well-being. Both at markets and in homegardens, diversity in the use of species associated with the domain of knowledge and traditions passed down through family generations means the use of plants is effective at curing diseases of the body and soul.