Report on the use of medicinal plants among pregnant women treated at the Centro de Salud Viña Alta, La Molina. Lima, Peru

Abstract

The objective was to explore the frequency and forms of use of medicinal plants in a group of pregnant women from the “Viña Alta” health center, La Molina. 21 pregnant women participated voluntarily, they were administered a survey validated by experts, which inquired about the use of medicinal plants. It was shown that 86% of pregnant women used medicinal plants, 67% did not consult their doctor about their use, the main form of use was by oral intake through infusion, and the most consumed plants were chamomile, parsley, eucalyptus, boldo, aloe, mint, and rue. Teratogenic effect, uterine stimulant, abortifacient, among others, of some medicinal plants used are reported. It is necessary to know the real load of plant use in Peruvian pregnant women, and to make a safety classification of medicinal plants, to promote the rational use of traditional medicine and contribute to public health. Keywords: Medicinal plants, pregnant women, consumption, risk, teratogenic, abortion