Summary of "Uso adecuado de plantas medicinales"

Key Wellness Strategies, Self-Care Techniques, and Productivity Tips on the Proper Use of Medicinal Plants

Understanding Medicinal Plants vs. Plant Drugs vs. Phytotherapy:
- Medicinal Plants refer to the whole plant, but therapeutically only specific parts (roots, leaves, flowers) are used, called "plant drugs."
- Phytotherapy involves standardized extracts with known concentrations of active ingredients, allowing precise dosing.
- Natural products can be raw plant parts or processed forms (teas, capsules, ointments).
Traditional Use vs. Popular Use:
- Traditional use is defined by at least 30 years of consistent use with:
  - Same plant (scientific identification)
  - Same plant part used
  - Same preparation method (infusion, decoction, etc.)
  - Same dosage
  - Same therapeutic indication
- Popular use is often spontaneous, anecdotal, or commercialized without scientific backing and can be risky.
Safety and Toxicity:
- All substances, including plants and water, can be toxic depending on the dose.
- Therapeutic index is crucial: the margin between a beneficial dose and a toxic dose.
- Example: Star Anise is effective for colic but can be toxic if overdosed.
- Natural does not mean safe; overdosing or misuse can cause poisoning or death.
- Pregnant women should avoid Medicinal Plants due to risks like spontaneous abortion.
- Children require special caution due to sensitivity to active ingredients.
Interactions with Synthetic Medications:
- Medicinal Plants can potentiate or inhibit the effects of pharmaceutical drugs.
- This can lead to treatment failure or dangerous side effects (e.g., diabetic coma).
- Always consult a healthcare provider before combining plants with medications.
- Medicinal Plants should only be used for minor ailments or as complementary treatments, not for serious or life-threatening conditions.
Best Practices for Preparation and Use:
- Identify the plant correctly by its scientific name.
- Use organically grown plants free of chemicals.
- Clean utensils and preparation area thoroughly.
- Wash hands and plant parts before use.
- Prepare fresh treatments each time; if storing, refrigerate and use within 24 hours.
- Follow traditional preparation methods strictly (infusion vs. decoction).
- Do not eat or smoke during preparation.
- For topical applications, clean the affected area with soap and boiled water before applying remedies.
- Dry plants in shade and ventilated places to preserve properties; avoid sun drying.
Common Medicinal Plants in Costa Rica:
- Sour Orange (for nerves)
- Chamomile (gastrointestinal issues, muscle relaxation)
- Cat’s Claw (immune support but not a cure for serious diseases)
- Awareness that plants with similar popular names may differ in effects and toxicity.
Educational Resources:
- Caribbean Plant Pharmacopoeia: A detailed guide for health professionals including active ingredients and mechanisms.
- Smaller educational brochures available for the general public to promote safe and effective use.

Presenters / Sources

María del Mar Sedano (Host)
Saúl Aguilar (Host)
Mildred García González, Professor, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Costa Rica
Organization of Tropical Studies, University of Costa Rica
Research group on traditional popular medicine in Caribbean countries